Senior Japanese, US, Indian officials to meet in Washington

Senior officials from Japan, the United States and India will hold a meeting to discuss strengthening their relations in Asia-Pacific region. Japan and India said the meeting will be held in Washington on December 19th to exchange views. The fact that China has been extending its influence in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean spurred the gathering, Japan''s NHK website reported. US President Barack Obama said on November 17th in an address in Australia that the United States thinks the Asia-Pacific region is one of the most important to the US. Obama also said that China should uphold international norms. India is wary because China has been increasing economic and military assistance to India''s neighbors. India plans to undertake with Vietnam joint development of an oil field, but China is opposed to the project. (QNA) RMA/LY