BEIJING - China opposes Japan's so-called "actual control" of the Diaoyu Islands and the waters surrounding them, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Wednesday.

Hong made the remarks at a daily news briefing when asked to confirm media reports alleging that China has proposed jointly managing the islands with Japan.

Hong reiterated that the Diaoyu Islands and their affiliated islets have been part of China's inherent territory since ancient times and China holds indisputable sovereignty over them.

"China has repeated its position regarding the Diaoyu Islands during all consultations with Japan on the issue and stressed its strong opposition to any acts that could undermine China's territorial sovereignty," Hong said.

The Chinese government will continue to firmly safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Hong said.