KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A top U.S. defense official called on Southeast Asian countries Saturday to stand strong against China’s increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea.
Speaking at a meeting with defense leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Malaysia, the official highlighted concerns over China’s recent behavior in the disputed waters, including incidents of ships being rammed and the use of water cannons.
The South China Sea is a point of contention, with China claiming almost the entire region. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei, all ASEAN members, also have claims to parts of the sea. The Philippines, a key ally of the U.S., has experienced frequent clashes with Chinese ships.
While the Philippines has asked for a stronger response from the region, ASEAN has often balanced its approach due to its important economic relationship with China.
The U.S. official criticized China’s declaration of Scarborough Shoal, seized from the Philippines in 2012, as a “nature reserve,” saying it was an attempt to expand its territorial claims.
The official stated that China’s actions challenge the sovereignty of nations in the region, but reiterated that the U.S. values continued discussion with China and will closely watch its actions.
“China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea contradict their promises to resolve disagreements peacefully,” the official said. “We want peace, not conflict. But we must ensure that China isn’t trying to dominate anyone.”
The ASEAN nations have been in talks with China for years over creating a Code of Conduct to manage activities in the sea, but the U.S. official urged ASEAN to strengthen its defense capabilities. This includes better joint surveillance and quick response tools to prevent future aggression.
The U.S. official also praised plans for a joint ASEAN-U.S. maritime exercise in December, which the official said would improve cooperation and uphold the rights of all nations.
China has previously criticized the U.S. for interfering in regional affairs and increasing tensions through its military presence. Chinese officials maintain that their activities are lawful and aimed at protecting security in what they consider their territory.
Recently, Chinese officials criticized the Philippines for conducting joint naval and air exercises with the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand in the South China Sea. China described the drills as undermining regional peace.
