africa.chinadaily.com.cn
China Defends South China Sea Sovereignty Claim at International Seminar
An international seminar in Beijing examined China's South China Sea sovereignty claim, supported by historical documents and international law but challenged by other claimant states citing the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, prompting calls for multilateral efforts to manage disputes.
- What is the historical and legal basis for China's claim of sovereignty over the South China Sea, and what are the immediate implications of this claim for regional stability?
- Global experts convened in Beijing to discuss China's sovereignty claims in the South China Sea, emphasizing its historical basis within the post-WWII international order. The seminar included representatives from multiple nations, highlighting the international interest in this issue. China's stance is rooted in documents like the Cairo and Potsdam Declarations, which stipulated Japan's surrender of illegally seized territories.
- How do conflicting interpretations of international law, such as the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and historical documents, contribute to the ongoing disputes in the South China Sea?
- China's recovery of sovereignty over the Xisha and Nansha islands is presented as integral to the post-World War II order, supported by historical documents and international law. However, conflicting claims exist, primarily from the Philippines, which cites the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. This convention addresses resource rights, not sovereignty, creating a complex situation.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the South China Sea dispute, considering the involvement of major powers and the potential for escalation, and what role can multilateral organizations play in de-escalating tensions?
- The South China Sea dispute highlights the tension between historical claims of sovereignty and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which focuses on resource rights. The Philippines' alignment with the US complicates the situation, potentially escalating tensions. Multilateral efforts, particularly through ASEAN, are crucial for managing disputes and promoting a code of conduct.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article centers on China's historical and legal claims, giving significant weight to statements supporting China's position. The headline and introduction highlight China's perspective and the international seminar focused on supporting its claims. This focus potentially influences the reader to perceive China's position as more valid or dominant. While counterpoints are presented, they are given less prominence.
Language Bias
The language used in the article leans somewhat towards supporting the Chinese perspective. Phrases such as "recovery of sovereignty" and "firmly safeguard" are used in relation to China's claims, implying a sense of legitimacy and rightful ownership. While attempting to be neutral in some instances, the overall word choices favor the Chinese narrative. The article could be improved by using more neutral language such as "claims of sovereignty" instead of "recovery of sovereignty" in several instances.
Bias by Omission
The article primarily presents the Chinese perspective on the South China Sea dispute, giving less emphasis to the viewpoints of other claimant states like the Philippines, Vietnam, and others. While it mentions the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the perspectives of some scholars from other countries, the depth of analysis on these perspectives is significantly less than that given to the Chinese perspective. Omission of detailed counterarguments weakens the overall neutrality and balanced presentation of the issue.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the conflict, framing it as primarily a dispute between China and the US, with the Philippines presented as a proxy. This oversimplifies the complexities of the various claims and geopolitical interests involved. The presentation neglects the nuances of the individual claims of other nations and the multifaceted history of the region.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the historical and legal basis of China's claim to the South China Sea, aiming to promote understanding and potentially de-escalate tensions. Respect for sovereignty and adherence to international law are central themes, which are directly related to maintaining peace and justice. The involvement of multiple nations in discussions suggests a commitment to multilateralism and finding peaceful solutions.