In clear defiance of China's demands, G7 leaders on Thursday discussed the contentious issues of South China Sea and East China Sea, which has escalated tensions in Western Pacific region. The discussion was initiated by Japan, who rejected China's request that the maritime territorial disputes are not discussed at the G7 Summit.   

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"Prime Minister Abe led discussion on the current situation in the South China Sea and East China Sea. Other G7 leaders said it is necessary for G7 to issue a clear signal," said Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Hiroshige Seko.

The details of discussions are still not known. However, reports indicate that all G7 leaders have unilaterally agreed to send a strong message to China. Japan's Prime Minister Abe stated that Tokyo is opposed to the 'act of changing the status quo by force,' making an indirect reference to China's alleged bullying tactics in the South China Sea.

The G7 leaders' tough stand against China is expected to reflect in the final statement that will be issued after the end of the summit.  

G7 leaders had started criticizing China even before the G7 Summit started. British Prime Minister David Cameron categorically stated that China must abide by the impending ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in Hague on the South China Sea dispute.

During his historic visit to Vietnam, US President Barack Obama issued a veiled warning to China over its alleged bullying tactics in the region. "Big nations should not bully smaller ones," Obama said.

Obama lifted the 42-year-old arms ban on Vietnam during his historic visit. A move that many see as aimed at shoring up Vietnam's military defense against China.

Tagschina, G7 summit, G7 Summit 2016, South China Sea