Washington Warns Beijing To "Halt" Land Reclamation In South China Sea

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter, addressing a conference of diplomats in Singapore, said China's actions are "out of step" with international law.

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter issued a stark warning to Chinese officials on Saturday, telling them to "immediately halt" land reclamations in the South China sea.

The area has been at the center of a territorial dispute between China and its neighbors for a number of years.

In a speech to regional diplomats and experts in Singapore, Carter conceded countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, and Taiwan have all claimed territory in the region, but he said China has gone much further and faster.

"China has reclaimed over 2,000 acres, more than all other claimants combined and more than in the entire history of the region," Carter said. "And China did so in only the last 18 months."

"To that end, there should be an immediate and lasting halt to land reclamation by all claimants. We also oppose any further militarization of disputed features. We all know there is no military solution to the South China Sea disputes," Carter said.

Carter also added that in the face of Beijing's expansionsim the U.S. would maintain, according to international law, a conspicuous military presence in the area.

"The United States will fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows," he said.

China maintains its work in the area is not breaking any laws and that its only aim is to protect China's sovereignty.

When asked about Carter's remarks, China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said she "wasn't aware" of the comments but warned the U.S. to "stop making provocative remarks."

The South China Sea is thought to be rich in oil and natural gas reserves, as well as a diverse marine life.

Whichever country asserts its dominance over the region will also have a vast fishing area at its disposable, as well as control over strategic shipping lanes.

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