Military dismisses islands war fear_美文_趣味英语-查字典英语网

Military dismisses islands war fear

A regular combat-readiness patrol has been established in waters under China's jurisdiction, Geng said.

The patrol is not targeting any specific country but will protect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights, he said, adding that the PLA is "confident that it is capable" of performing the task.

A legitimate move by the navy, to protect national interests, should not be interpreted as adopting a hard line against other countries, Geng said.

"At least we can tell from Geng's remarks that, at present, China is not willing to resort to armed force to solve disputes in the South China Sea," said Niu Jun, a professor of international politics at Peking University.

The stance is consistent with the government trying to solve the issue in a peaceful way, Niu said.

"There are hawkish voices at home, but in my view they are just acting in an irresponsible way which does not help the situation."

Zhai Dequan, deputy secretary-general of the China Arms Control and Disarmament Association, believed Geng's comments are a message to Vietnam, the Philippines and Japan not to use intrigue or deceit to increase the risk of military conflict in the South China Sea or the East China Sea.

No one will benefit from war, he said.

The news conference also heard senior PLA officers address other issues.

Colonel Lin Bai, with the General Armament Department of the PLA, dismissed reports that China's aircraft carrier is ready for service, saying it will continue to undergo tests.