US Navy to Continue Patrolling Near Chinese Artificial Islands

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrVOmUSVrgs]

• Published on Oct 28, 2015
  Despite China’s strong condemnation of US Navy’s patrol in the South China Sea, Washington has said that it will continue sending warships to the area. US Defense Secretary, Ashton Carter said US troops operate wherever international law permits. He said there will be more similar operations close to artificial islands built by Beijing in the weeks and months to come. China’s Foreign Ministry summoned US ambassador over the issue. On Tuesday, the USS Lassen guided missile destroyer sailed within 12 nautical miles of at least one of the islands. China has called the action as extremely irresponsible. Beijing has also urged Washington to cease such actions, saying they will damage bilateral relations. The islands are part of reefs and archipelagos disputed between China and the Philippines. Manila has welcomed the US Navy’s patrol in the South China Sea, saying it helps maintain the balance of power.

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