Biden: "Challenge from China and Russia... Must Defend South China Sea and Arctic Sea Routes"

Blinken: "Russia, Will Respond to Reckless and Aggressive Actions"

Photo by AFP

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] U.S. President Joe Biden stated that the United States will defend maritime routes in the South China Sea and the Arctic Ocean in response to challenges to maritime rules posed by China and Russia.

President Biden made these remarks during his commencement speech at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, on the 19th (local time), criticizing China and Russia for challenging existing maritime rules such as freedom of navigation and trade.

He said, "Long-standing fundamental maritime principles like freedom of navigation have supported global economic power that has benefited countries around the world for decades as the foundation of the global economy and security," adding, "however, we are increasingly witnessing these rules being challenged due to rapid technological advances and disruptive actions by countries like China and Russia."

He continued, "Whether in the South China Sea, the Indo-Pacific, the Arabian Gulf, or the Arctic routes, the areas of international trade and shipping must be maintained peacefully," emphasizing, "Securing the uninterrupted flow of global trade is a very important concern of U.S. foreign policy."

The United States has previously raised criticism that China is expanding its military presence in the South China Sea and that Russia is establishing forward bases along the Arctic coastline.

President Biden stated that the U.S. must play an active role in setting behavioral norms centered on democratic values and that it will continue to support the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed concerns about increased military activity in the Arctic at the Arctic Council ministerial meeting held in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, the day before.

He said, "Russia is making illegitimate demands regarding foreign vessels passing through the Arctic Ocean route," referring to maritime regulations.

He added, "We prefer a more stable and predictable relationship with Russia," and warned, "If Russia takes reckless or aggressive actions targeting the interests of our country, allies, and partners, we will respond."