Q: There have been some reports by Japanese media on the possible agreement reached by China and Japan on the East China Sea issue. Could you comment on that?

A: China and Japan will make announcement once the agreement on the East China Sea issue is reached. I would like to emphasize that the two sides will handle relevant issues properly in accordance with the major consensus reached by leaders of the two countries to make the East China Sea a sea of peace, cooperation and friendship. The outcome achieved will be mutually beneficial.

I would like to reiterate that China's consistent position and stance on the East China Sea issue have remained unchanged. Chunxiao Oil and Gas Field falls completely within China's sovereignty rights, and has nothing to do with joint development. When it comes to the East China Sea demarcation, China's position has stayed unchanged that it does not recognize the so-called "medium line".