BEIJING — China’s Ministry of National Defense refuted false reports by Australian media on April 20 that Chinese navy “challenged” Australian navy in the South China Sea earlier this month.

“Relevant reports by Australian media did not tally with the facts,” said the ministry in a statement.

“Chinese navy warships encountered with Australian warships in the South China Sea on April 15. Chinese warships used professional language to communicate with the Australian side, and the operation by the Chinese warships was in accordance with laws and regulations, professional and safe,” the statement said.