Admiral Stephen Koehler, Commander of the US Pacific Fleet, addressed the South China Sea Conference and warned of the destabilizing impact of China’s actions in the Indo-Pacific. He stated that China’s illegal claims and assertive behavior threaten regional peace. Koehler emphasized the US Navy’s commitment to deterring aggression in the Western Pacific, including the South China Sea and Taiwan. He pointed to China’s ambition to dominate the region through increased military deployments, aggressive drills, and the intimidation of its neighbors. Koehler referenced specific incidents of aggression by the PLA and China Coast Guard. The US Navy prioritizes the Indo-Pacific, deploying substantial forces and resources. The conference also discussed a strategic concept to enhance regional defense cooperation, with the understanding that Taiwan’s exclusion from such frameworks could jeopardize peace and stability.
