US State Department

Washington alleges China's "aggressive" behaviour is threatening the region's stability and the sovereignty of some nations.

Sandra Oudkirk, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, said there had been a range of increasingly problematic behaviour from China in the region.

She said this included predatory economic activities and investments that undermined good governance.

"While local governments continue counterterrorism operations, the Department nevertheless remains concerned about the potential for future terrorist attacks," the alert said. "U.S. citizens should always be alert to the possibility that terrorist sympathizers or self-radicalized extremists may conduct attacks with little or no warning."

 It has also outlined how it will attempt to facilitate the deal without taking it through the minefield of the US congress.
 US Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Charles Grassley and House of Representatives Judiciary

Committee chairman Bob Goodlatte have publicly questioned in recent weeks the State Department and Department of Homeland Security's decision to keep the deal classified and not consult with congress.
 
The State Department hit back, outlining its stance in a letter, obtained by AAP, to Grass