US believes China must work for peace – Hagel

MANILA, Philippines - The US believes China must   work for peace and find a diplomatic solution to the dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

Visiting US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said his government backs ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) efforts to negotiate the South China Sea Code of Conduct to help peacefully manage disagreements and tensions arising from competing territorial and maritime claims.

Speaking to reporters following a courtesy call on President Aquino at Malacañang, Hagel said the US appreciates the Philippines’ efforts to solve the dispute with China through peaceful means.

“In the meantime, we encourage nations to peacefully resolve their disputes through internationally accepted mechanism and in accordance with international law, including the Law of the Sea and without coercion or militarized attempts to alter the status quo,” he said.

Hagel said he was able to speak with the Chinese defense minister when they met at the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Brunei on Aug. 28-29 and in Washington about 10 days ago, and their indication was clear that they understand the need to maintain peace and stability in the region.

“The Chinese said this and I don’t speak with the Chinese government, but they clearly understand, like we all do, that this world is interconnected and all powers must develop relationships and get along with each other for their own economic development, for stability, security, peace,” he said.