China on Thursday urged the U.S. not to take sides on territorial issues, voicing anger against U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, who said ‘Diaoyu Islands’’ fall under the scope of the Japan-U.S. security treaty.
“U.S.-Japan alliance arrangement originated from the Cold War. We strongly oppose using this arrangement to undermine the interests of third parties.
“The U.S. should be prudent in words and deeds, honoring its commitment to not taking sides on territorial issues.
“The U.S. should do more to contribute to regional peace and stability, rather than the opposite,” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.
Hua reiterated that ‘Diaoyu Island’ and its affiliated islands are part of China’s inherent territory.
“It is a fact that can never be changed and China’s determination to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity cannot be shaken,” she said.
Hua called on the U.S. to respect China’s efforts to resolve problems with other claimants through dialogue and negotiation.
She urged U.S. to stop words and actions that might complicate the situation, adding that U.S. should play a constructive role in regional peace and stability.
