MANILA, Philippines (AP) -– The Chinese and Philippine defense chiefs warned rival claimants Monday to avoid unilateral action and focus on responsible behavior in disputed South China Sea islands, where recent spats have renewed tensions.

Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie and his Philippine counterpart, Voltaire Gazmin, acknowledged in a joint statement the need to ensure that the South China Sea remains stable and called for “responsible behavior” while claimant nations seek a peaceful solution.
Liang's four-day visit comes amid renewed tensions in the disputed Spratly Islands, which are contested by China, the Philippines and four other nations.
Washington has expressed concerns that the disputes could hamper access to one of the world's busiest commercial sea lanes.