US State Depart Issues Statement on China and Law of the Sea

       Finally, after some years of comments and statements regarding China's claim of sovereignty over a large portion of international waters in the Western Pacific and its approaches from Southeast Asia, the State Department issued a statement that the US does not recognize China's claims of sovereignty over the South China Sea.   These waters are international without national ownership i any form.   This statement, long in coming asserts a new recognition that China's efforts to establish control in the area will no longer be acceptable.
     Better late than never.