Biden Says China Raises ‘Risk of Accidents’ In Island Dispute

Biden said he will raise the issue with the Chinese on his visit later in the week.

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Vice President Joe Biden sharply criticized China’s attempt to claim sovereignty over disputed parts of the East China Sea, in remarks Tuesday showing unity with American ally Japan.

“This action has raised regional tensions and increased the risk of accidents and miscalculation,” Biden said while in Tokyo on a multi-country Asia tour, the Associated Press reports. “The prospect for miscalculation and mistake is too high.”

Biden, standing beside Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, said the U.S. is “deeply concerned” with the “air defense zone” China unilaterally created last week over disputed islands. The U.S. and Japan have refused to recognize the zone. Biden also said he will raise the issue with the Chinese leadership on his visit Thursday.

[AP]