White House responds to South China Sea petition vs China

MANILA, Philippines — Having reached nearly 140,000 signatures, a petition seeking sanctions against China over the maritime dispute earned the attention of the White House.

In an undated statement published Friday, the White House responded to the petition related to the South China Sea dispute filed through its online We the People platform.

"The United States has long called for China and all claimants to pursue their territorial claims and accompanying rights to maritime space peacefully, without resorting to coercion, and in accordance with international law," it said.

The petition asked the United States government to take measures against China for "invading" Vietnam in the deployment of an oil rig, which Beijing ordered removed in July this year.

The White House noted the Obama administration's stance against activities to pursue territorial and maritime claims over the South China Sea.

READ: Top US diplomat questions China's construction in disputed sea

"We have expressed our concerns over China's actions, including its deployment of the HD-981 drilling operation, to Chinese leaders at the highest levels," i said.

Vietnam, China and the Philippines are among the rival claimants on certain areas in the key waterway.

"We support efforts that lower tensions and expand space for peaceful and diploatic resolution of disputes," the White House added.

China had begun reclamation activities in waters claimed by the Philippines—a move which prompted Washington and other members of the international community to condemn Beijing's show of force at sea.