BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese military spokesperson has voiced firm opposition against the unfounded accusations and smears made by the Philippines and Australia against China.

This undated photo shows a view of Ren'ai Jiao. (File photo: Xinhua)

Chen Xi, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks at a press briefing on Friday in response to a query about the recent Philippine-Australian joint statement from a defense ministers' meeting, which expressed "serious concern" over recent actions taken by the China Coast Guard (CCG) at Ren'ai Jiao.

The Chinese side took necessary countermeasures, which were professional, restrained and beyond reproach, regarding the Philippine side's deliberate provocations and attacks on the Chinese personnel at Ren'ai Jiao, about which the CCG has issued a statement and released evidence, Chen said.

Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao and an inherent territory of China, and whatever the Philippine side says or does cannot change this fact, the spokesperson noted.

"What the Philippine side should do is to remove the illegally grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) as soon as possible," Chen said.

The Chinese side will continue to conduct rights-protection and law enforcement activities to thwart any violations or provocations and safeguard national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, he said.

"We urge relevant countries to stop peddling false narratives, provoking confrontation and undermining regional peace and stability," Chen said.