Korea is taking no sides amid growing speculation that the United States is pressing Seoul to back its biggest ally in a South China Sea dispute.

Washington and Beijing have exchanged words about the latter’s efforts to build artificial islands and military installations in the region that is raising tensions with neighboring countries.

Amid the intensifying feud between the two superpowers, the U.S. seems to be continuously urging Korea to speak out against China’s behavior and the issue is expected to come up for discussion in next week’s summit.

“There has been no change to our position on the issue since last week,” said an official at the foreign ministry, Tuesday.

The ministry stated then that the Korean government hoped that the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea will be thoroughly and effectively implemented.

Read more: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2015/06/116_180496.html