Some countries outside the region exercise "navigation hegemony" on the pretext of "freedom of navigation" in the South China Sea, trying to "muddy the waters to rake in profits," Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu said at the 20th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday.

Li said in his speech that thanks to the concerted efforts of regional countries, the situation in the South China Sea has generally remained stable, and regional exchanges and cooperation have grown stronger. Every year, tens of thousands of ships from different countries sail through the South China Sea, transporting a total of $3.5 trillion of goods to all parts of the world.

"We have never heard of any of these ships having any trouble passing through or facing any security threats," Li said.

It is natural for neighbors to disagree with each other from time to time, Li mentioned. He added that while countries in the region are engaging in communication and consultation for proper settlement of differences, some countries outside the region keep sowing discordance and fanning flames.

"We need to stay clear-eyed and level-headed over the benefits and risks," said Li.

Li emphasized that China will join hands with other regional members, keep in mind the big picture and long-term interests, and fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea in order to ensure that the South China Sea is "a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation."

(Cover: A bird's-eye view of China's Xisha Islands, South China Sea. /Xinhua)