July 12, 2016
MAC Press Release No. 46
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) issued the following statement today (July 12, 2016) on the results of the South China Sea arbitration case announced by the Arbitral Tribunal:
1. The Office of the President has issued a statement explaining to the public the government's position on the arbitration result and its solemn stance insisting on the sovereignty of the Republic of China (ROC) in South China Sea.
2. The Arbitral Tribunal did not formally invite the ROC to participate in its proceedings or solicit ROC's views. The arbitration result has seriously jeopardized the ROC's rights in the South China Sea islands and relevant waters. This is completely unacceptable to the ROC government. The tribunal’s decision has no legally binding force on the ROC.
3. The ROC is entitled to all rights over the South China Sea islands and their relevant waters in accordance with international law and the law of the sea. In 1947, "Location Map of the South China Sea Islands" published by the government clearly showing the scope of the territory and waters of the ROC. Since that time, the government has staunchly defended the ROC's territory and sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and their relevant maritime rights, and this will not change. The ROC government urges that the inclusion of the ROC in multilateral dispute settlement mechanisms, as well as disputes in the South China Sea be settled through an approach of setting aside differences and promoting joint development. The ROC government is willing to work with all States concerned to advance peace and stability in the South China Sea area.
4. The President immediately convened a high-level national security meeting after the announcement of the South China Sea arbitration case. Government ministries also will continue to closely watch and stay alert to ongoing developments and properly respond to safeguard the nation's best interests.