Although it does not mention China by name, a statement issued after the G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Hiroshima on Monday about the disputes in the South China Sea can be interpreted as veiled criticism of China for being the cause of the increased tensions in the region.

This is false and unfair.

China has pursued peaceful settlement of the South China Sea disputes directly with the countries concerned according to international law and on the basis of respecting historical facts. And it has sought to maintain peace and stability in the waters through talks and consultations, as advocated in the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.