US Vice President Kamala D. Harris will visit the Philippine islands of Palawan on the edge of the disputed South China Sea, a senior administration official said on Tuesday, in a move that may be interpreted by Beijing as a rebuke.
The visit, scheduled for next Tuesday, will make Ms. Harris the highest-ranking American official to visit the island chain adjacent to the Spratly Islands. China has dredged the sea floor to build harbors and airstrips on the Spratlys, parts of which are also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
The South China Sea, which contains massive oil and gas deposits, is the stage for $5 trillion in ship-borne trade each year but also a flashpoint for Chinese and US tensions around naval operations. The Philippines is a defense ally of the United States, but under former President Rodrigo R. Duterte it avoided criticizing Beijing, eyeing Chinese investment.
During her last trip to the region, Ms. Harris accused China of actions to “coerce and intimidate” neighbors.
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Kamala Harris to visit Philippine islands at edge of South China Sea disputeWASHINGTON --- U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris will visit the Philippine islands of Palawan on the edge of the disputed South China Sea, a senior administration official said on Tuesday, in a move
Read more »
Kamala Harris to visit Palawan at edge of South China Sea disputeThe visit, scheduled for next Tuesday, will make US VP Kamala Harris the highest-ranking American official to visit the island chain adjacent to the Spratly Islands.
Read more »
What to expect: US Vice President Harris’ visit to PHWashington's commitment to Manila in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to deepen economic ties will take centerstage during United States Vice President Kamala Harris' visit to the Philippines.
Read more »
US Vice President Harris set to meet Marcos, Sara in visit to PHUNITED States Vice President Kamala Harris is set to arrive in the Philippines on Sunday and will meet with President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara...
Read more »
US Vice President Harris set to meet Marcos, Sara in visit to PHUNITED States Vice President Kamala Harris is set to arrive in the Philippines on Sunday and will meet with President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara...
Read more »
Buy a watch, save a Philippine Eagle - BusinessWorld OnlineSEIKO has released another Philippine Limited Edition Prospex diver’s watch, again relying on the theme of a Philippine icon.
Read more »