BEIJING, Feb. 7 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday slammed Philippine President Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III over his remarks comparing the Philippines' status in territorial disputes in the South China Sea to Czechoslovakia before World War II.

"Such a comparison is ridiculously inconceivable and unreasonable. The Chinese side is shocked and dissatisfied," said ministry spokesman Hong Lei at a regular press briefing.

China always steadily maintains international justice and has made huge sacrifices and indelible historical contributions for the victory of the world's anti-Fascist war, he added.

According to reports, Aquino, in an interview with the New York Times, compared the Philippines to former Czechoslovakia and urged for more global support.

"The disputes between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea were caused by the Philippines' illegal occupation of some islands belonging to China's Nansha Islands. The facts are clear," Hong said.

He noted that the two countries also have disputes over ocean demarcation, and that China always firmly opposes the Philippines' illegal occupation of its islands.

The spokesman reiterated the firm resolution of the Chinese government in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and ocean rights and interests, and called on relevant countries to solve the disputes through direct negotiation and consultation.

"We hope the Philippine side will correct its mistakes and work with us to jointly maintain the peace and stability of the region," Hong said.