China said Wednesday it was committed to promoting peace and stability in Asia, even as it sent an aircraft carrier battle group through the Taiwan Strait amid heightened tensions between Beijing and the self-ruled island. "China is committed to promoting peace and stability in this region. The report reiterated China's claims over South China Sea islands and waters, as well as territories in the East China Sea controlled by Japan. However, the emphasis was firmly on China's contributions to security and willingness to cooperate with others on "improving the regional security framework." Ma said he had no information on the Liaoning's passage through the Taiwan Strait and referred questions on the matter to the Defense Ministry, which did not immediately respond.

Source: ABC News January 11, 2017 09:51 UTC