China is capable of fighting to defend its sovereignty in the South China Sea, a Chinese military chief has said amid rising tensions in the region.

In his first public remarks as commanding officer of the newly-established Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army, General Wang Jiaocheng saidthe army would be highly vigilant towards any possible security threat in the disputed waters, People’s Daily reported yesterday.

“The military will be capable of dealing with any security threat. No country will be allowed to use any excuse or action to threaten China’s sovereignty and safety,” Wang said.

Wang, who previously commanded the Shenyang ­region, said his aim was to “ensure security in border controls and maritime defence”.

http://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/1918436/chinas-military-prepared-defend-sovereignty-south-china