The United States today said China is taking some steps that are 'self-isolating' with regard to the South China Sea and the US will 'fly, sail and operate' whatever international law permits there.

"I am not one of those people who believe that conflict between China and the US is inevitable. It is certainly not desirable and I don't think it is likely. The US will fly, sail and operate whatever international law permits in the South China Sea," US Defence Secretary Ashton Carter said.