US calls on China to stop bullying smaller neighbouring countries

Disputes in the South China Sea must not be resolved through bullying of the smaller nations but in a peaceful manner, according to US President Barack Obama, referring to China’s actions in the area.

Reports carried by Al Jazeera reported that US President Barack Obama will be addressing a summit with Southeast Asian countries prior to hosting the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in California early next week.

$5 trillion of world trade is shipped every year through the South China Sea, with China claiming most of the basin. Other claims have also been filed by Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan. Ignoring calls of concern that such efforts are aimed at limiting freedom of navigation, China has proceeded with island building that the US suspect could be turned to military use.

Earlier in January US Navy destroyer sailed within 12 nautical miles of one such island, in the second US military exercise in the area. This brought angry reactions from China.

However China will not be present at the upcoming meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, due to a week-long holiday for Chinese New Year.