VietNamNet Bridge – The parties concerned need to exercise restraint and resolve disputes in safe and appropriate way, said US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel at a press conference in Hanoi on May 8.

US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel answers media questions at the Hanoi-based US Embassy. -- File photo

The US President toured Northeast Asian and Southeast Asian nations to affirm the US’commitment to ensure stability, security and economic development in the region. US presence and commitment continues to constitute a significant stabilising force, he said

In addition, the US has conducted extensive diplomatic talks with all countries involved in the East Sea dispute. It has used diplomatic discussion at all levels to urge the parties involved to hold constructive talks aimed at finding an appropriate diplomatic solution to ease conflict, Russell noted.

According to the US Assistant Secretary, his nation has become actively involved in promoting economic development throughout the Asia-Pacific region by engaging in Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement negotiations and joint efforts to boost economic cooperation and bilateral trade ties.

Regarding the incident of the Chinese ships’collision with Vietnamese vessels in the East Sea on May 7, Russell said the US is very concerned about any dangerous action at sea and the country opposes any threat by ship, especially in territorial disputes.

He also highlighted the need to settle disputes peacefully in compliance with international law, particularly the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Source: VOV