MULTILATERAL cooperation between nations is the best way to oppose China’s claims in the the South China Sea, said United States Army Pacific Command general Charles A. Flynn.

Flynn said the best way to deal with the threat from China is through deeper cooperation and military training between the countries involved.

“Bilateral relations between the United States (US) and multilateral relations between the countries involved are very important to maintain peace and harmony in the waters involved.

“To solve a very complex problem like this, the best way is multilateral cooperation between all parties involved.

“The ability to bring together regional leaders sitting at the same table to understand each other and discuss the challenges they face personally, I think this is the best way to face any challenges in the region,” he told a press conference at the Asian Defence Services Exhibition (DSA) 2022 and Exhibition National Security Council (Natsec) Asia.

International media recently reported that at least three islands around disputed areas in the South China Sea have been fully furnished with military equipment by the Chinese government.

The maritime areas claimed as part of China overlaps with several countries around the waters, including Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei and Indonesia.

Flynn said the multilateral approach would help in efforts to safeguard the collective security of regional countries and ensure that Indo-Pacific waters are free and open to all parties.

He said the success of organising exhibitions such as DSA 2022 and Natsec as well as military exercises such as the Keris Strike Exercise and Bersama Warrior proves the close cooperation between regional leaders. – March 28, 2022.