(VOVworld) – US Senators who co-sponsored a resolution condemning China’s provocative actions in the East Sea and East China Sea have issued a statement affirming US’ commitment to the security, stability, and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

The US Senate passed a resolution on the East Sea and East China Sea last week.

A press release quoted Robert Menendez, Chairman of the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, as saying that as an Asia-Pacific nation, the US has an abiding national security interest in maintaining regional stability, the security of its allies and partners, in the freedom of navigation, free and unimpeded commerce, respect for international law, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. The US senate maritime security resolution reaffirmed guiding principles in the US foreign policy’s values and objectives.
Ben Cardin, Chairman of the East Asian and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee, said the US also has profound interests in the security and safety of maritime trading routes including in the East Sea. He said the US will act to ensure unimpeded access to the maritime commons of the Asia-Pacific and will take an active and strong stand against any coercion, intimidation, or use of force.
US Senator John McCain said the resolution affirms the US enduring commitment to the core principles of freedom of navigation and other international maritime law. He noted that the US Senate and the American people stand with the allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region to resolve territorial and maritime disputes peacefully. The US will continue to criticize China's unilateral efforts to change the status quo through force and coercion.
Last Thursday, with 100% of votes in favor, the US Senate adopted the resolution on the East Sea and East China Sea which asks China to withdraw its illegal oil rig Haiyang 981 and escort vessels off the area to resume its status quo.