Defense Secretary Ash Carter, in a speech at a World Affairs Council gala in Washington, said five evolving challenges now driving the Pentagon’s planning and budgeting were Russia, China, North Korea, Iran and international terrorism. AP/Manuel Balce Ceneta
WASHINGTON – The Pentagon on Tuesday reaffirmed its call to all countries with conflicting claims to parts of the South China Sea to refrain from reclaiming or militarizing any islands in dispute.

Pentagon spokesman Peter Cook said he could not confirm recent reports that China has deployed anti-cruise missiles on Paracel islands or increased its maritime survey activities around Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal but said all countries involved in maritime disputes should pursue diplomatic and legal solutions to these issues.

Defense Secretary Ash Carter, in a speech at a World Affairs Council gala in Washington, said five evolving challenges now driving the Pentagon’s planning and budgeting were Russia, China, North Korea, Iran and international terrorism.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/03/31/1567891/pentagon-appeals-peace-south-china-sea