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The Chinese government has stated that it hopes that the U.S. would "help and not cause problems" in the heavily controversial South China Sea.

This was disclosed by a senior Chinese diplomat on Friday ahead of the commencement of President Trump's imminent Asia trip.

Speaking to reporters about Trump's trip, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang said China has indisputable sovereignty over islands and surrounding waters in the South China Sea.

The essence of the South China Sea problem is some regional countries' illegal occupation of some of China's islands and reefs, Zheng said, adding China was willing to resolve issues peacefully through talks with countries directly involved.

"The South China Sea issue isn't an issue between China and the United States," he added.

"We hope that as an external party, the United States can plant more flowers and fewer thorns, help and not cause problems".

Zheng said he said he hoped the United States could objectively view the positive developments in the South China Sea and respect efforts by China and Southeast Asian countries to safeguard peace and stability there.

There is no issue with freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and China opposed any parties using it as an "excuse" to harm China's sovereignty and security interests, he added.