Minister: PLA to firmly protect maritime rights

The Chinese military will staunchly protect the country's maritime rights and interests and is "fully confident and capable of addressing various security threats and provocations", a senior military leader said on Sunday.

State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Chang Wanquan did not directly refer to the South China Sea situation, but tension there was heightened this year by increased US patrols and the arbitration case brought by the Philippines against China.

Addressing a reception in Beijing marking the 89th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army, Chang said the PLA will "unswervingly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests including territorial integrity and maritime rights and interests".