french.china.org.cn
China Proposes New South China Sea Narrative, Seeks Accelerated Code of Conduct
At the ASEAN Plus foreign ministers' meetings, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi addressed the South China Sea issue, emphasizing stability, proposing a new cooperative narrative, and aiming to finalize a Code of Conduct with ASEAN countries next year while dismissing a prior arbitration ruling.
- What is the current state of the South China Sea dispute, and how does China's approach differ from previous years?
- During the ASEAN Plus foreign ministers' meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi addressed the South China Sea issue, noting a difference in temperature between regional and extra-regional countries. He highlighted that while some outside countries continue making irresponsible remarks, their tone has softened, suggesting fear of a non-chaotic South China Sea.
- What are the key elements of China's proposed new narrative for the South China Sea, and how does it aim to influence regional relations?
- Wang Yi emphasized the South China Sea's stability, contrasting it with other global seas. He proposed a new narrative focusing on peace and cooperation, advocating for a stronger Code of Conduct (COC) with ASEAN countries, aiming for completion next year. This contrasts with past narratives emphasizing conflict and friction.
- How might the accelerated development of a Code of Conduct (COC) affect the long-term stability and cooperation in the South China Sea, and what are the potential challenges?
- The Chinese foreign minister's remarks reveal a strategic shift towards de-escalation and cooperation concerning the South China Sea. His emphasis on a new narrative and the accelerated COC process suggests a proactive approach to shaping the region's future discourse and managing potential conflicts. The dismissal of the 2016 arbitration ruling as a political maneuver underscores China's continued rejection of international legal challenges to its claims.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article strongly favors China's narrative. The headline (if any) likely emphasized China's stance. Wang Yi's statements are presented largely uncritically, while criticisms of other countries are included without substantial counterpoints. The article's structure prioritizes the Chinese foreign minister's perspective and implicitly frames any opposing viewpoints as irresponsible or self-serving.
Language Bias
The language used reflects a pro-China bias. Terms such as "irresponsible remarks," "old tricks," and "political manipulation" are used to describe actions of other countries, creating a negative connotation. The repeated use of "peace, stability, and cooperation" in relation to China's proposal presents a positive framing that is not equally applied to other perspectives. Neutral alternatives would be to use more descriptive and less judgmental language such as 'statements from other nations,' 'previous tactics,' and 'political disagreements.'
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the Chinese perspective and minimizes other viewpoints. There is a lack of direct quotes from other countries involved in the South China Sea dispute, which limits the ability to understand their positions and concerns. While this might be partially due to the context of a press briefing by the Chinese foreign minister, the lack of alternative perspectives constitutes bias by omission.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by portraying the situation as either 'peace, stability, and cooperation' or 'frictions, conflicts, and confrontations.' This oversimplifies the complexities of the South China Sea dispute, ignoring the nuances of competing claims and interests.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights diplomatic efforts by China and ASEAN countries to improve the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, aiming to foster peace and stability in the region. The focus on dialogue, consultation, and a commitment to resolving disputes peacefully directly contributes to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by promoting cooperation and reducing conflict.