China and Russia are beginning joint naval drills which Beijing has described as the country's largest with a foreign partner, BBC News reported.

The drills, which are taking place in the Sea of Japan, last from 5-12 July.

People's Liberation Army chief Gen Fang Fenghui said on Tuesday, July 4 the drills did not "target any third parties", but aimed to deepen ties with Russia.

However they come amid tensions with regional neighbours including Japan and the Philippines over maritime disputes.

China has overlapping claims with Tokyo and Manila in the East China and South China Sea respectively - something which has led to a marked deterioration in ties in recent years as China has pressed its claim more assertively.

Last month the US and Japanese navies held joint exercises off San Diego.