An international symposium focusing on the history and current situation of the South China Sea took place in Beijing on Thursday. The event aimed to promote China's perspective on sovereignty and peace within the region, which is experiencing increasing tensions.
The symposium brought together over 150 experts and scholars from various countries, including China, the Philippines, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The National Institute for South China Sea Studies and the Huayang Center for Maritime Cooperation and Ocean Governance organized the event.
Key topics of discussion included the post-World War II international order, the claims of sovereignty over the South China Sea islands (referred to by China as Nanhai Zhudao), and the disputed 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling.
Wu Shicun, chairman of the Huayang Center, stated that China's claims to sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao are supported by historical and legal evidence. He maintained that China's control over the area predates the post-WWII international framework. Wu also rejected the 2016 arbitration ruling and presented China's actions as those of a defender of the international order. He encouraged China and ASEAN to continue discussions on the Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea to maintain peace and stability.
Conversely, critics argue that China's extensive claims and military buildup have destabilized the region, hindering genuine peace efforts. The 2016 arbitration tribunal, which China has refused to recognize, rejected many of China's claims and supported the Philippines, highlighting China's violation of international maritime laws.
Rommel Banlaoi, president of the Philippine Society for International Security Studies, noted that the arbitration award has complicated relations between Manila and Beijing. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and confidence-building measures, rather than China's coercive tactics. Banlaoi highlighted the historical connections between Filipinos and Chinese through the sea but warned that China's recent actions risk turning the South China Sea into a potential conflict zone.
The symposium also addressed the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) and the ongoing negotiations for the COC. These documents are intended for dispute management but have been criticized for lacking enforcement mechanisms, particularly in light of China's assertive actions.
6 Comments
Michelangelo
I support China’s call for a Code of Conduct. Establishing rules is vital for maintaining order in contested waters.
Donatello
China’s view on sovereignty ignores the rights of smaller nations. They should not dictate the narrative.
Raphael
China's focus on sovereignty shouldn't be dismissed outright. Every nation has its right to its claims.
Donatello
It’s incredibly irresponsible for experts to support China's claims without acknowledging the facts presented in the arbitration.
Coccinella
Wu Shicun makes a great point about the historical context of China's claims. It's often overlooked in Western narratives.
Raphael
The symposium is a farce. It excludes the voices of those directly affected by China's aggressive maneuvers.