MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Two U.S. senators say a confrontation between the United States and China in Asia is unlikely but America will arm its allies like the Philippines amid territorial spats in the region.
Arizona Sen. John McCain said Tuesday that Washington will deploy more air and naval assets, intensify joint military exercises and forge more trade pacts with friendly Asian countries.
McCain says South China Sea territorial disputes should be resolved peacefully by all concerned countries and based on international law.
Sen. Joseph Lieberman says "we're not gonna let those claims to be settled by force or by bullying."
Lieberman says Washington "simply cannot allow one nation, specifically China, to exercise disproportionate control" over the busy South China Sea.
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