To prevent use of force or coercion to resolve claims either to territory or to maritime rights.
To advocate for respect for international norms and law for resolving all such issues.
To ensure that all countries, including the U.S., have the right to exploit the mineral and fish resources outside of legitimate Exclusive Economic Zones.
To prevent a U.S. ally, the Philippines, from being bullied or subject to use of force.
To ensure that the rights of all countries, not merely large ones, are respected.