China criticizes Philippines over South China Sea dispute

China has accused the U.S.-allied Philippines of "political provocation" in seeking international arbitration over territorial claims in the South China Sea. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Thursday the decision by Philippine leaders to lodge a case with a tribunal in The Hague was "irresponsible to the Filipino people and the future of the Philippines." China has refused to participate in the proceedings. A ruling is expected later this year, after the tribunal decided last October that it could hear the case. 

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