“China’s increasingly aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea – including the militarisation of the artificial features that it has built in the region, in direct contradiction of a pledge made by President Xi Jinping not to do so – is deeply disturbing, and not consistent with the actions of a nation seeking to build a constructive and cooperative relationship with the United States,” Mr Cardin said.
“The United States has a deep and abiding interest in freedom of navigation and the free-flow of commerce in the Asia-Pacific region, and a stead-fast commitment to our regional allies and partners in maintaining stability, security and the rule of law, including safe passage in international waters,” Mr Cardin said.
The incident comes amid rising tensions in the South China Sea due to Beijing’s military presence in the disputed area.
(Sourced from agencies, feature image courtesy:newsdog.today)
