China's Actions In Sea Disputes Straining US Ties

China 's Actions in Maritime Disputes with its neighbors in the South China Sea are straining U.S.- China relations and raise Questions on WHETHER Washington can work together with Beijing in Asia and on Bilateral issues, a Senior U.S. official said on Thursday.

Close Washington is in contact with the Vietnamese Government on "How to manage MOST Effectively" Hanoi 's STANDOFF with Beijing after China TOWED an Oil RIG into Seas claimed by both Countries, the Official told Reuters.

Vice President Joe Biden and Other Top U.S. Officials told visiting Chinese General Fang Fenghui , Chief of the general staff of China's army , that Beijing 's behavior in the Maritime Disputes was "Dangerous and Provocative" and must stop, the Official Said.

(Reporting By Matt Spetalnick and David Brunnstrom)