Leaders of the group of seven industrialised nations (G7) on June 4 expressed their deep concern over the ongoing tensions in the East Sea and East China Sea.

A communiqué on foreign policy issued at the end of the first day of the G7 meeting in Brussels also read: “ We oppose any unilateral attempt by any party to assert its territorial or maritime claims through the use of intimidation, coercion or force.”

The G7 leaders called on all parties to clarify and pursue their territorial and maritime claims in accordance with international law, adding that they support the rights of claimants to seek peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including through legal dispute settlement mechanisms.

The statement came at a time when China is increasing its unilateral acts in the East Sea and East China Sea, including the illegal installation of its oil rig Haiyang Shiyou – 981 in Vietnam’s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone in the East Sea early May.

Last month, US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel accused China of destabilising situation in the East Sea.-VNA