A senior US admiral has warned that China's actions in the South China Sea show its attempt to gain control through force, causing instability in the area.
Tensions between the Philippines and China have risen due to clashes at sea, including the use of water cannons and verbal confrontations, sparking fears of escalation.
Admiral John Aquilino, head of the US Indo-Pacific Command, stated at a talk in Sydney's Lowy Institute that China's actions, particularly near Second Thomas Shoal, are "dangerous, illegal, and destabilizing."
He expressed concern over recent clashes where six sailors were injured and questioned China's intentions in the region.
Similar incidents involving China have been observed in Japan and Malaysia, indicating a broader pattern of territorial aggression, according to Aquilino.
China asserts nearly the entire South China Sea as its own, deploying coastguard vessels far from its mainland to enforce its claims.
While there have been no concerning maritime confrontations between the US and China recently, Aquilino warned that the current calm might not last, especially as China focuses on stabilizing its economy.
He also highlighted growing cooperation between Russia, China, and North Korea as a new concern, suggesting a shift in global dynamics.
In the Pacific Islands, China is using economic pressure tactics, prompting joint efforts from Australia and the US to counterbalance by increasing development aid to countries like the Solomon Islands, which have aligned with China on security matters.
Aquilino stressed that China's military presence in the region poses a direct threat to Australia's security and also undermines US interests.
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