(File Photo of the Izumo-class helicopter destroyer)

China will definitely take firm actions if the Japanese side insists on attempting to get militarily involved in the South China Sea, harm China's sovereignty and security, and heighten regional tensions, said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying at the regular press conference on March 16, 2017.

Hua response came after reports said that the Japanese Self Defence Force is going to send its largest destroyer to the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean for joint military exercises. Comments say that this is a move taken by Japan to increase its military involvement in the South China Sea, in support of other South China Sea claimants.

“Out of its selfish interests, Japan has been stirring up troubles and creating splits in the South China Sea. Their behavior has prompted dissatisfaction and opposition of the Chinese people,” Hua said.

Japan is not a party concerned in the South China Sea issue, Hua said, reminding that the Japanese side had disgraceful history of occupying China's Xisha and Nansha Islands during its war of aggression against China. “The Japanese side should reflect upon the history, and be discreet with its words and deeds, instead of making waves in the South China Sea and impairing regional peace and stability,” Hua added.