TOKYO, Oct 19 (Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide
Suga said on Monday Tokyo opposes any steps to raise tension in
the South China Sea, and that disputes should be resolved
through peaceful means.
"Japan strongly opposes any behaviour that heightens tension
in the South China Sea," Suga said is his speech in Hanoi.
Vietnam and some other ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian
Nations) members have territorial feuds with China in vital
South China Sea waterways.
"Regarding the South China Sea issue, it is important for
all countries concerned not to rely on force or threat but to
work toward peaceful resolution based on international law,"
Suga said.