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US Pacific Commander: Not take side in South China Sea disputes

By chankaiyee2 on May 18, 2012 • ( 1 )

Admiral Samuel Locklear

Radio and Television Hong Kong reports today, Commander of US Pacific Command Samuel Locklear said that the United States would not take side in the disputes over sovereignty in the South China Sea. He also said that he would strive to promote and build up satisfactory and undisrupted relations between American and Chinese troops.

He described China as a rising power and America as a mature power. How China rises and how America encourages China’s rise are very important for both sides. He said that satisfactory communications between American and Chinese troops may enhance mutual understanding between the two countries and facilitate world security. Contacts between the militaries are a channel for establishment of mutual trust between countries.

Locklear who has recently visited China, said that development in the relations between the militaries of the two countries are encouraging, and that he hoped the dialogue would continue.

Regarding the disputes between China and the surrounding countries over sovereignty in the South China Sea, Locklear reiterated that the United States would not take sides, and encouraged the parties concerned to resolve the disputes by peaceful means. He also said that American troops would continue to ensure free navigation by all countries in the South China Sea.