国内英语新闻:China reaffirms position on South China Sea

BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday reaffirmed its position on the South China Sea issue is "clear and consistent".

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei made the remarks in response to Vietnam's objection to China's two-month fishing moratorium in the sea areas under China's jurisdiction in the South China Sea. This year's fishing ban starts on May 16.

Hong said China's relevant authorities have implemented fish moratorium for many years in the sea areas under China's jurisdiction.

China's annual fishing ban is a normal administrative measure to protect marine resources, Hong said.