Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said China wouldn't object to any "legitimate and lawful" agreement between Vietnam and a third country. However, Hong added, "If such agreement concerns waters administered by China or if such cooperation project is not approved by the Chinese government, then we will be concerned about such an agreement and we will not support it."
Hong was responding to questions on President Pranab Mukherjee's signing an agreement during his current visit to Vietnam. "We have noted President's Mukherjee's visit to Vietnam. I would like to point out that China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha islands and adjacent waters," he said, going on to spell out China's concerns.
Chinese government sources said Beijing is prepared to severely oppose India's "newfound enthusiasm" for Vietnam after defence deals with another rival, Japan. It has earlier opposed India's oil exploration efforts along with a Vietnamese company in the area.
While it isn't clear where the two oil wells will be located, China has conveyed similar objections about wells previously allotted to ONGC by Hanoi. China lays claim on almost all of South China Sea, a stand opposed by Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei. In fact the dispute between Vietnam and China over oil exploration flared up last May when Hanoi fiercely resisted Beijing's attempts to deploy a major oil rig.
'Boundary feud doesn't affect ties'
Hong also said the India-China boundary dispute doesn't influence bilateral ties "because it covers several issues including economic relations". Asked what he thought about the latest incursion by Chinese troops into the Indian border, Hong said, "As per the border issue you mention, China's position is consistent. We believe that for a long time China and India have maintained stability in border areas, and this issue does not influence bilateral ties."
The two countries should make continuous efforts to resolve the differences, and maintain tranquility and stability at the border, he said.
The foreign ministry also tried to set the tone of China's approach during Xi's India tour, saying the most important task was "development and realization of China's and India's dreams". China and India are willing to stand by each other to accelerate the process of joint and common development, Hong said.
"We stand ready to step up developmental cooperation with India and boost the development of global economy. We wish full success of the visit so that bilateral relations can be brought to a new high," he said.
The two neighbours will exchange their experiences on national governance and development strategies, Hong said. "Through this visit we hope to connect our important civilisations and make contribution to world civilization," he said.
