BEIJING -- A spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday reiterated that Ren'ai Jiao is a part of the Nansha Islands and asserted China's rights over the shoal.

Spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a media request for comment on the Philippines' recent claim that Chinese ships and vessels pose a threat to the security of the Nansha Islands.

Noting that Ren'ai Jiao is part of the Nansha Islands, and that China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and their adjacent waters, Hong said Chinese public service vessels are entitled to patrol there.

Hong also urged relevant countries to fully and earnestly implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), refrain from actions that could amplify or complicate the issue, and avoid any action that could undermine peace and stability in the region.