US, EU concerned by China's 'problematic and unilateral actions' at sea
(VOVWORLD) - The United States and the European Union on Thursday expressed strong concern over China's "problematic and unilateral actions" in the South and East China Seas.
The joint statement followed talks in Washington between US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and the Secretary General of the European External Action Service, Stefano Sannino.
The statement, issued after the second meeting of the US-EU Dialogue on China, emphasized the importance of the United States and EU maintaining continuous and close contacts on their respective approaches as they cooperate with China where possible, and manage their competition and systemic rivalry with China responsibly.
It said China’s actions in the South and East China Seas undermine peace and security in the region and have a direct impact on the security and prosperity of both the United States and European Union.
The statement followed the second meeting of the US-EU Dialogue on China established this year.
Sherman and Sannino are due to continue China-related discussions with high-level consultations on the Indo-Pacific on Friday.