China tells US to stay out of Asia’s maritime disputes

China on Tuesday told the US to stay neutral over South China Sea maritime disputes and leave countries in the region to resolve problems themselves, The Guardian reported, citing a foreign ministry statement. China “hopes that countries outside the region strictly maintain their neutrality, clearly distinguish right from wrong and earnestly respect the joint efforts of countries in the region to maintain regional peace and stability.” Michael Fuchs, US deputy assistant secretary of state for strategy and multilateral affairs, had earlier reiterated the US view that “provocative and unilateral” behavior by China in the region had raised questions about its willingness to abide by international law.