BEIJING, June 16  -- China is determined to effectively respond to security challenges, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said on Monday after Japan's deployment of anti-ship missiles in Okinawa.

Hua Chunying made the remarks at the ministry's regular press briefing when asked to comment on the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's deployment of surface-to-ship missiles and its 2016 plan to equip Kumamoto Prefecture with the missiles.

She said China adheres to the diplomatic policy of good neighborhood and friendly relations, and will take effective measures to respond to security challenges and safeguard national and territorial sovereignty.

Japan's military deployment will complicate the security situation in the region, Hua said, noting that Japan should explain its intention of the military move.