China's military is poised to conduct routine patrols in the disputed South China Sea, according to an announcement from the military's Southern Theater Command. The move comes amid continuing tensions in the region over contested territories.
The command emphasized its commitment to protecting national sovereignty, security, and maritime rights, stating that troops would maintain a constant state of high alert. Any military activity that disrupts the peace and creates tension in the South China Sea is firmly under control, the command asserted, as per to Firstpost.
Joint Drills Heighten South China Sea Tensions
This aerial photo shows part of the Subi Reef and Chinese vessels identified by the Philippines as "maritime militia" near Thitu Island in the disputed South China Sea on December 1, 2023.
imultaneously, joint military drills involving the United States and the Philippines are taking place in the same area. This marks the second such exercise in two months, as the allies strengthen their defense coordination in response to China's growing presence. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently reaffirmed Washington's commitment to military cooperation with the Philippines during a phone call with his Philippine counterpart Enrique Manalo.
Reports suggest that China has deployed a guided-missile destroyer and a frigate to monitor the movements of Philippine and American navies. The Philippine media outlet GMA Network reported that one of the Philippine patrol boats issued warnings to the Chinese vessels but received no response.
In response, the Philippines has deployed helicopters and ships, while the US Indo-Pacific Command has sent multiple combat aircraft and four vessels, including an aircraft carrier and destroyers.
The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Romeo Brawner, described the joint mission as a "significant leap" in their alliance and interoperability. He emphasized that the strengthened alliance sends a message to the world that they are committed to upholding a rules-based international order and a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
China and the Philippines have been embroiled in escalating tensions over disputed reefs in the South China Sea, which are claimed by both sides. The patrols coincide with the Philippines' announcement of sending additional floating assets to the Scarborough Shoal. This move follows an allocation of funding by the Philippine Congress to construct a "permanent structure" at the Second Thomas Shoal, prompting a warning of a "resolute response" from China.
To reinforce its sovereignty claim, the Philippines has increased its activity around the disputed reefs, including supply missions for its troops and fishermen operating in the area. These missions have often been met with blockades from China, using water cannons and floating barriers to deter Philippine vessels. These obstructions led to two ship collisions last year, with both countries blaming each other, according to South China Morning Post.
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ASEAN Urges Peaceful South China Sea Resolution
Efforts to resolve the South China Sea issue peacefully are crucial, according to experts and officials from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The claimant countries play a critical role in not exacerbating the situation. External parties, such as the United States, are seen as having ulterior motives in stirring up conflict and encircling China.
The US is accused of using the Philippines as a pawn in its strategic competition and containment strategy against China. Such meddling can complicate diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes and undermine ASEAN's unity in managing the issue.
Vietnam, another claimant country, sees the territorial dispute with China as a historical problem that can be resolved through consultations and exercises of restraint. Maintaining stability is essential for both countries, enabling them to focus on development. In December, China and Vietnam issued a joint statement agreeing to seek a lasting resolution to maritime disputes that aligns with international laws.
Experts emphasize the need for a shared vision, commitment, and cooperation between China and ASEAN on the South China Sea issue. They suggest focusing on areas such as nontraditional security cooperation, environmental initiatives, fisheries, and piracy to build mutual trust and gradually advance negotiations on a Code of Conduct.
Resolving differences requires a long-term perspective based on goodwill and pragmatism, moving away from a confrontational approach influenced by the West and embracing an Asian approach to dispute resolution.
Ultimately, the South China Sea should be viewed as a zone of peace, cooperation, and joint development, instead of a hindrance to bilateral relations, China Daily reported.
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