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US defense chief: US has say in disputes on Asia's seas


HANOI, Vietnam — US Defense Secretary Robert Gates said America has an interest in the growing number of disputes over ownership of Asian island chains and freedom of navigation through waters that China claims. Gates told China and other Asian powers Tuesday that the US has a national interest in ensuring that strategic shipping lanes remain open and that the US and other navies can sail in what they consider international waters. Gates' language in prepared remarks was polite but direct. China views the US as an outsider meddling in Asian affairs. Gates is in Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, for a gathering of Asian defense ministers. He wants to make a point about limits of Chinese control while also patching up military ties with Beijing. — AP

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