Road map toward China's maritime peace
- Source: Global Times
- [00:52 July 27 2010]
- Comments
When talking about China's oceanic expeditions, the most frequently cited example involved Zheng He, a general of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) who led a Chinese fleet that cruised to the east coast of Africa some 400 years ago.
That was the last time that China displayed its ocean exploration ability. The fleet returned without creating any clashes with countries along the route.
Today, with its growing political, economic and military power, and the desire to solve South China Sea tensions, China faces a challenge in persuading its worried neighbors that it would behave like it did 400 years ago.
China's statement that the South China Sea is its major interest no doubt challenges the countries that hope to keep the status quo surrounding China's maritime territory. It raised the necessity that China needs to elaborate on its offshore strategy. The US intention to step in South China Sea affairs, signaled by recent remarks by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, highlighted such a necessity.
The "shelving disagreement and joint development" idea, proposed by China, has laid the foundation for peaceful dialogue in the disputed waters. However, the idea was not perfectly conveyed. Many are worried that China is buying time and intends to solve the conflict with future growing power.
The anxiety is now taken by the US to upset the relationship between China and its Southeast Asian neighbors.
The Chinese public often sees "joint development" as a violation of China's sovereignty and interests. A strong public mood sometimes leaves government with a limited choice when it comes to diplomatic moves.
Clearly stating China's intention and easing the concerns of other countries remains a challenge for China in the future. As the largest country in the region, China has the responsibility to reduce the divergence and build a consensus.
Disagreements may be hard to put aside but China should find ways to push forward joint developments, through which reciprocating ventures can be formed to reduce conflicts.
It takes time to solve this conflict, a historical issue, but through joint efforts and mutual understanding, common ground can be reached. Clashes are not destined in the South China Sea conflict, and one must break this expectation.
Most regional countries have agreed not to internationalize the South China Sea issue. It should be a diplomatic priority of China to hold on to this position and keep the US out of it.
