China continues to 'coerce' in South China Sea: Harris

Her comments came during a trip to Singapore, aimed at bolstering ties with partners in the region as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing economic and security influence.

Harris will later on Monday travel to Vietnam as part of her visit to Asia.

The disputed South China Sea, a strategic waterway with potential oil and gas riches, has competing claims by China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei.