- US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel, to the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore criticised China for its aggressive disputes over land and air jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific.
- Referring to China’s disputes with Vietnam and Philippines, he said that US will not take it lightly if others try to restrict navigation and fuel disputes disturbing the peace of the region.
- He also encouraged China to solve regional disputes through diplomacy and dialogue with neighbouring states.
- China dismissed the allegations as baseless and accused the speech to be inciting instability in the region.
- China said that it would not initiate aggressive action in the South China Sea, but will respond adequately.
- It also rejected Japan’s offer for talks until Japan ends its erroneous policy towards China and improve bilateral ties.
- Read at: http://epaperbeta.timesofindia.com/Article.aspx?eid=31806&articlexml=US-China-square-off-on-marine-hotspot-01062014014008
Exams Perspective:
- Shangri-La Dialogue
- Disputes in South China Sea
- China’s ADIZ
- Maritime Diplomacy