China concerned over Philippines-Vietnam sea exploration

China has expressed concern over plans of Vietnam and the Philippines to jointly conduct scientific research in the area of the South China Sea where the Spratly islands are located. China foreign ministry spokesman Kong Quan said China hopes the two countries will “strictly follow the established principles” of a 2002 agreeement by rival Spratlys claimants to refrain from actions that could disturb the peace of the area. The joint expedition will take marine science experts to some 26 marine stations in the South China Sea from April 6-9. (Agence France Presse, March 10).