China has called for "peace and stability" in the Asia-Pacific region, after the first contigent of 200 US Marines was deployed in Australia.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hong Lei (Source: AP)

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters at a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday that "Peace, development, and cooperation is the trend of the times and the common aspiration of people in the Asia-Pacific. Hong said China hopes parties involved will make constructive contributions to a united and harmonious region. The 200 US Marines arrived in Darwin in northern Australia as part of the defense deal between Australia and the US, under which 2,500 American troops will be stationed there to strengthen US military presence in the region.