Sullivan Cosponsors Resolution Condemning China's Aggression in The South China Sea

Press Release

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) yesterday joined Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) in introducing a resolution to condemn the Chinese Communist Party's actions to militarize the South China Sea, applaud members of the United States Navy and Coast Guard for their efforts to ensure freedom of navigation operations, and send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate China's extension of power into waters beyond its legitimate territorial sea boundaries.

"In recent years, China has ramped up its aggressive actions against neighboring peaceful nations both to expand its influence and subvert the rule of law in the South China Sea. The alarming, belligerent behavior of Xi Jinping cannot continue," Sen. Sullivan said. "This resolution commends the courageous Coast Guard and Navy service members who continue to promote international order in the region and sends a strong message to the Chinese Communist Party that hostility toward our allies will not be tolerated."

"The Communist Party of China, led by General Secretary Xi, continues to militarize the South China Sea and is eager to expand its territorial claims in the region," Sen. Scott said. "This aggressive and unlawful action cannot be tolerated. I'm proud to lead my colleagues today in a resolution to applaud the hardworking men and women of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard for working to defend our freedoms, and to send a clear message to General Secretary Xi that his aggression cannot continue."

"The brave men and women of our Armed Forces deployed in the Indo-Pacific play a critical role in protecting access to vital commercial corridors like the South China Sea," Sen. Tillis said. "I am proud to join my colleagues supporting the tireless efforts of our servicemembers to safeguard a free and open Indo-Pacific region and denounce the Chinese Communist Party's ongoing aggression in the South China Sea and other international waters."

"China's claims to sovereignty over the South China Sea are unfounded and threaten the international order," Sen. Wicker said. "The U.S. must hold Beijing accountable for its unauthorized expansions, and I applaud the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard for working to maintain the balance of power in the Pacific region."

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