; (4) the arbitral tribunal award of July 2016 stated that there is no legal basis for China to claim historic rights to resources within the sea areas falling within the nine-dash line ; and (5) the United States should play a vital role in securing the South China Sea and ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight for all countries by undertaking freedom of navigation operations on a regular and consistent basis, as well as maintaining persistent presence operations in the region. 1267. Sense of Congress on the importance of the relationship between the United States and Japan It is the sense of Congress that— (1) the United States and Japan are indispensable partners in tackling global challenges, and have pledged significant support for efforts to counter violent extremism (including the threat of the Islamic State), combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, prevent piracy, and assist the victims of conflict and disaster worldwide; (2) the security alliance between the United States and Japan has evolved considerably over many decades and will continue to transform as a partnership, sharing greater responsibilities, dedicated to ensuring a secure and prosperous Asia-Pacific region and world; (3) the alliance between the United States and Japan is essential for ensuring maritime security and freedom of navigation, commerce, and overflight in the waters of the East China Sea; (4) Japan, a cornerstone of peace in the Asia-Pacific region, stands as a strong partner of the United States in efforts to uphold respect for the rule of law and to oppose the use of coercion, intimidation, or force to change the regional or global status quo, including in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, which are among the busiest waterways in the world