US warns Beijing against using force in South China Sea

State department concerned by new laws that authorise Chinese coastguard to use weapons against foreign ships

The United States has warned China against the use of force in disputed waters as it reaffirmed its view that Beijing's assertive campaign in the South China Sea is illegal.

The state department voiced concern" about new legislation enacted by China that authorises its coastguard to use weapons against foreign ships that Beijing considers to be unlawfully entering its waters.