Reuters: Mattis warns of Chinese "intimidation"; says U.S. seeks "results-oriented" ties
SINGAPORE (Reuters) - The United States is willing to work with China on a “results- oriented” relationship, but Beijing’s actions in the South China Sea were coercive and the Pentagon would “compete vigorously” if needed, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Saturday.
The comments by Mattis, speaking at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, come at a time of increased tension between the two nations in the South China Sea and highlight how President Donald Trump’s administration is looking to balance China’s cooperation on North Korea while dealing with its activities in the disputed sea.
“China’s policy in the South China Sea stands in stark contrast to the openness that our strategy promotes, it calls into question China’s broader goals,” said Mattis, who said he would be travelling to Beijing this month.
“The U.S. will continue to pursue a constructive, results-oriented relationship with China, cooperation whenever possible will be the name of the game and competing vigorously where we must ... of course we recognise any sustainable Indo-Pacific order has a role for China,” he said.
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WNU Editor: China has responded (rather quickly in my opinion) .... South China Sea dispute: Beijing attacks 'irresponsible' US comments (BBC). At least China is admitting to this .... China is putting troops, weapons on South China Sea islands, and has every right to do so, PLA official says (SCMP).
More News On U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis Issuing A Warning To China
Mattis slams China on South China Sea island weaponization -- FOX News/AP
US will ‘compete vigorously’ in South China Sea, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis warns Beijing -- SCMP
Mattis takes hard line on China in Singapore speech -- CNN
U.S. Defence Secretary slams China’s weaponization as ‘intimidation and coercion’ -- Global News/AP
Defense Secretary Mattis warns of Chinese 'intimidation' in the South China Sea -- NBC
Mattis warns of 'consequences' if Beijing continues with 'intimidation and coercion' -- CNBC
South China Sea dispute: Mattis says China 'intimidating neighbours' -- BBC
Mattis accuses China of 'intimidation and coercion' in South China Sea -- The Guardian
US defense chief Jim Mattis rebukes Chinese 'intimidation' in South China Sea -- DW
Mattis accuses China of 'intimidation and coercion' in South China Sea -- The Hill
Mattis accuses China of 'intimidation' in South China Sea -- Al Jazeera
US Defense Secretary Mattis Slams China for Militarising South China Sea Islands -- Sputnik
