China says deployment of US military in the South-China Sea is turning region into whirlpool of an arms race.

In his remarks, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong said at present, the biggest security challenge in the South China Sea comes from outside the region.

Sun Weidong said US-led forces are promoting military deployment and actions in the South China Sea, inciting and intensifying maritime disputes and damaging the legitimate rights and interests of coastal countries.