evidence: Three Chinese ships on Sunday patrolled the James Shoal, an area also claimed by Malaysia, and soldiers and officers on board swore to safeguard its sovereignty, in the latest sign of Beijing’s territorial assertiveness in the South China Sea. [...] "During the ceremony held in the Zengmu Reef area, soldiers and officers aboard swore an oath of determination to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and maritime interests," Xinhua said. Zengmu Reef is the Chinese term for James Shoal. [...] Beijing regards the James Shoal as the southernmost part of the country’s territory.