China objects to US over sea defense zone remarks

BEIJING — China says it has complained to the U.S. about "irresponsible remarks" about China's drawing up of a sea air defense zone that includes disputed islands.

China also called Japan's objections to its East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone "absolutely groundless and unacceptable." Japan complained that China had escalated tensions over the small islands that both countries claim.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said in a statement Sunday that the zone's aim is to defend China's sovereignty and the security of its airspace and land. He said it is not aimed at any country and it does not affect freedom of overflights.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel have both said the U.S. was "deeply concerned" about China's unilateral action.