China will refrain from conducting reclamation work on the Scarborough Shoal in the disputed South China Sea ahead of a G20 Summit that will be held in Hangzhou next month, the South China Morning Post reported.

"Since the G20 will be held in Hangzhou next month, and regional peace will be the main topic among leaders of the great powers, China will refrain from reclamation plan," said the source, on the condition of anonymity.  

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The decision comes after Philippine's special envoy Fidel Ramos wrapped up an ice-breaking meeting with Chinese official on Friday. After the meeting, Manila said that it wants to restart the peace process to avoid any further tension over the maritime dispute.

However, sources claim that China may start reclamation work on the Scarborough Shoal after the G20 Summit. China may initiate the construction activities well before the U.S. election on November 8.

Tensions have escalated in the South China Sea region recently after the Permanent Court of Arbitration dismissed China's claims in the disputed maritime territory. China has dispatched several security and fishing vessels near the Shoal, according to Washington Free Beacon.   

Last month, reports emerged Chinese coast guard had shooed away several Filipino fishermen before spraying water cannons on them. The fishermen were quoted saying that they have been fishing in the area for many years and never expected to be chased.

Scarborough Shoal is claimed by China, Philippines, and Taiwan. China has seized the Shoal after a tense standoff with the Philippines' Coast Guard.

Tagschina, Scarborough Shoal, G20 Summit 2016, Philippines And China, South China Sea Dispute