US defense department concerned by China’s coercion against Vietnam in East Sea
The US Department of Defense on August 26 expressed its deep concern at China’s “coercive interference” in Vietnam’s longstanding oil and gas activities in the East Sea, as well as its continued efforts to violate the rules-based international order throughout the Indo-Pacific.
 |
| Vietnam's DK1 rig in its southern continental shelf. (Photo: VNA) |
“China's actions stand in contrast to the United States' vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, in which all nations, large and small, are secure in their sovereignty, free from coercion, and able to pursue economic growth consistent with accepted international rules and norms,” it said.
According to the statement, China will not win the trust of its neighbours nor the respect of the international community by maintaining its “bullying” tactics.
China’s actions to coerce ASEAN claimants, station offensive military systems, and enforce an unlawful maritime claim raise serious doubts over China’s credibility, the statement added.
