BEIJING - China has expressed strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines for hyping the so-called "China threat" and inciting regional confrontation over issues related to the East China Sea and South China Sea, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

China has lodged stern representations with them, said ministry spokesperson Lin Jian at a daily press briefing in response to questions regarding the negative comments made by the four countries about China at the Shangri-La Dialogue.

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"Bloc politics and camp confrontation reflect a Cold War mentality, which runs counter to the trend of the times and is unwelcome among regional countries," Lin said, adding that such acts neither resolve problems nor can they intimidate China.

Lin said China's determination and will to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests are steadfast.

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"We urge the United States and its allies to stop smearing and vilifying China on maritime issues, distorting the facts, and shifting blame. They should cease forming exclusive 'small circles' and halt actions that undermine or disrupt regional countries' efforts to resolve disputes through dialogue, uphold peace, and maintain stability," Lin said.