Full coverage: The South China Sea Issue

CCTV reporter Li Jiejun spoke with Professor Tony Carty from Tsinghua University on the South China Sea arbitration. He believes China has historical rights in the South China Sea, and maintained that there are records pointing to the economic use of islands in the region by Chinese fishermen.

"We know that the ruling deny China's historical rights in the South China sea. What's your take on this?

"It is quite clear, China has historical title under general international law to these islands that make up. Chinese fishermen use these islands to fish in the area of South China Sea. From this aspect, the judgement of the tribunal, I think, is quite shocking," said Professor Tony Carty.