TOKYO: A top US commander of the US Forces in Japan has alleged China for using the coronavirus as a cover to push its territorial claims in the South China Sea.
He also blamed China for pushing its claims through a surge in naval activity with an aim to intimidate other countries that claim the waters.
Lieutenant General Kevin Schneider said there has been a surge of activity by China in the South China Sea with coast guard vessels, navy ships, and a naval militia of fishing boats.
He said that through the course of the coronavirus crisis, they have seen a surge of maritime activity, according to Reuters.
He also blamed Beijing for increasing its activities in the East China Sea.
According to him, China’s increased level of activity will likely continue.
Beijing has claimed that its maritime activities in the area are peaceful.
China has built some military island bases on reefs in the South China Sea, and in near waters that have been claimed by other countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
(With inputs from Agencies)
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