US, Vietnam warn against 'threat or use of force' in South China Sea

The United States and Vietnam on Monday warned against the "threat or use of force" in the disputed South China Sea, days after the latest clash involving Chinese vessels.

"The Leaders underscored their unwavering support for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, without the threat or use of force," President Joe Biden and Vietnamese leader Nguyen Phu Trong said in a joint statement, calling for "unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea".