August 1, 2016

"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."

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http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2016-08/01/content_26288976.htm