Drawing Lines in the South China Sea: Understanding Beijing's New Claims
China recently intensified its territorial assertions in the South China Sea by declaring new “baselines” around Scarborough Reef, also known as Huangyan Dao in Chinese and Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines. This move reiterates China's sovereignty over the disputed area and responds to the Philippines' recent maritime laws asserting claims over contested zones. The reef, a critical coral atoll, lies just 215 km from the Philippines and holds strategic significance in global trade routes.
China’s latest declaration defines geographical coordinates around Scarborough Reef, marking territorial seas and economic zones. While such actions align with standard practices under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), China's use of “straight baselines” conflicts with international law, as per previous arbitration rulings. This method maximizes maritime zones under China's control, sparking opposition from neighboring nations like the Philippines.
The Philippines rejected China’s claims, with its officials warning against increasing Chinese demands to concede sovereign rights. This ongoing sovereignty dispute, which has seen repeated clashes and blocked fishing access for Filipinos since 2012, has heightened regional tensions. Despite an international tribunal ruling against China’s historic rights claims in 2016, Beijing has refused to recognize the decision.
China’s clarified baselines around Scarborough Reef could signal plans for enhanced law enforcement in the area. The China Coast Guard has already announced intensified patrols, potentially escalating confrontations with the Philippines. Future Chinese moves are expected to focus on the Spratly Islands, another contested archipelago with significant economic and strategic value, drawing further protests from regional players.
This development highlights the enduring geopolitical friction in the South China Sea. It underscores the need for diplomacy and adherence to international law to avoid conflict and ensure regional stability.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com