"Compared with other countries, Vietnam is the boldest in exploring for oil in the South China Sea," state-run Global Times said in an editorial today.
Without naming India's ONGC which had earlier been offered a block for oil exploration by Vietnam, the editorial said "through cooperation with oil companies from a third country, Vietnam is constantly seeking to expand offshore oil and gas businesses within the nine-dash line."
Nine-dash line represents China's "territory" in the disputed sea.
"It may have already forgotten that it has been stealing resources".
China in the past protested over ONGC's drilling operations.
"China is more determined than ever when it comes to protecting its sovereignty. Vietnam must rein in its behaviour, which will only benefit its long-term interest," the editorial said and accused both Vietnam and Philippines of whipping up disputes with China on the South China Sea.
"But it is certain that China won't just stand by when confronted with these moves by Vietnam and the Philippines.
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"Vietnam and the Philippines often expect China to step back under the so-called international pressure. However, they have to understand that it is Chinese public opinion that matters the most. Safeguarding China's sovereignty is the universal will of the 1.3 billion Chinese citizens," it said.
"Vietnam and the Philippines should give up their illusions of offsetting China's advantages with strength. Although the political environment in the South China Sea has become complex due to US interference, the region is definitely a place where political magic tricks can be performed. China will not be at a loss because of a few diplomatic moves in this area," it said.