KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- The head of U.S. Pacific Command warned on Monday that coercive actions by China and other actors are challenging stability in the Indo-Pacific, asserting that the United States will not permit any single nation to dominate the region.
Admiral Samuel Paparo stated that certain actors are employing “false claims of legitimacy” to justify intimidation and coercion, distinguishing between “the rule of law” and “the rule by law.” He described this distinction as the “defining fault line of our time” during a regional security conference in Malaysia organized by the U.S. Pacific Command, delivered via video link.
Paparo's remarks come amid ongoing high tensions in the South China Sea, where China's extensive maritime claims conflict with those of multiple Southeast Asian nations. The Philippines has been particularly involved in confrontations with China, especially near a disputed shoal where vessels from both countries have repeatedly clashed.
Manila has accused Beijing of dangerous maneuvers, employing water cannons, and attempting to impede Philippine resupply missions. China, however, has refuted these accusations and continues to assert its territorial claims in the contested waters.
The United States has maintained its position of neutrality regarding sovereignty claims but emphasizes its support for freedom of navigation, adherence to international law, and the rights of states to operate in accordance with those principles.
Admiral Paparo underscored the importance of freedom of the seas, maritime security, and open commerce for regional stability. He stressed that the peaceful resolution of disputes and respect for the sovereignty of all nations are crucial for preserving the Indo-Pacific order.
“The United States is clear-eyed about the complex security environment in this region. Our posture and our intent are well defined,” Paparo said. “The United States is deterring China through strength, not through confrontation. We will not let any nation dominate this region or sweep away the hard-fought sovereign rights of independent states."
The commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command noted that the region serves as the world's geopolitical and economic center of gravity, with increasing instability and security challenges highlighting the growing importance of cooperation among allies and partners.
Earlier in the conference, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro declared that his country would persist in resisting and pushing back against threats from China. Teodoro informed reporters that the Philippines' concerns extend beyond China's activities in the South China Sea, citing Beijing's actions in other areas, including a recent ballistic missile launch into the Pacific Ocean, as evidence of its expanding influence and military presence.
“China is everywhere… this is a matter of concern,” Teodoro stated.
On the sidelines of the conference, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn reported significant progress in talks between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China concerning a code of conduct for behavior in the South China Sea. Kao expressed confidence that a final agreement would be reached within the year, noting a dramatic increase in the pace of negotiations.