US calls on Australia to challenge China in the East Sea

During a visit to Canberra on June 8, Mr. Berger stressed that each country must make its own decisions but the US "absolutely" welcomes Australia to participate in so-called freedom of navigation operations.

General Berger confirmed that the Australian defense force is capable and on par with the US.

Recently, the US has shown that it plans to step up activities in the East Sea to demonstrate to Beijing that its claim to sovereignty over the waters surrounding the artificial islands is illegal.

Lieutenant General David Berger, Commander of US Marine Corps Forces in the Pacific, at a press conference at the US Embassy in Canberra on June 8. Photo: SMH

Mr. Berger said that each country could find its own way to work with the region to show Beijing that its claim to that sea is not acceptable.

In addition, General Berger affirmed that if countries do not allow aircraft to fly over artificial islands in the East Sea or send ships there, it means that they in fact recognize China's sovereignty claim, which has been abolished by international law.

Furthermore, General Berger said the US is also waiting for Beijing to dismantle its military bases in the East Sea.

Not only Australia, France is also showing its presence in the East Sea. Since 2014, French ships have regularly sailed into the East Sea to support freedom of navigation.

The Wall Street Journal commented: Faithful to its commitment to support freedom of navigation in the East Sea, France can lead other European countries against China's aggression in the region.

In addition, French President Emmanuel Macron is building stronger defense ties with India and Australia, and appears to be taking the growing Chinese challenge into account.

In March, the French navy said the frigate Vendémiaire had been patrolling the South China Sea to confirm France’s presence in the area. Photo: French Navy

This is a welcome change from Mr Macron's predecessors, who were said to be "fascinated by business and investment opportunities in China".

Moreover, France is rallying other European countries to take action in support of the freedom of navigation declaration, a message conveyed by French Defense Minister Florence Parly at the recent Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore.

Ms. Parly stressed that France will continue to conduct patrols in the disputed waters, along with Britain and Germany. According to her, at least five French ships have entered the South China Sea in the past year. The French action could form the basis for a European multinational operation.