Amidst tensions resulting from conflicting territorial claims in the South China Sea, China made it clear it “had no fear of trouble” from the United States, the world’s most powerful country.
Jurisdictional and territorial dispute over the South China Sea has led to strained relationships between China and others countries in the world. In recent times, the issue has become overheated because of US provocations for its own selfish interests, as opined by Admiral Sun Jianguo in an interview at the security summit in Singapore.
Warnings came from Defense Secretary Ashton Carter that Chinese construction in the disputed water may instigate unspecified “actions” by the US and other nations. Economic strain between Washington and Beijing is feared to get worst due to the rising tension, but Chinese Admiral Sun Jianguo defends Beijing’s actions.
Reports suggest that Beijing is claiming almost all of the strategically vital seas, including contested reefs and islands topped with airstrips. Washington took a bold step by sending warships close to the Chinese-claimed reefs, thus angering Beijing, states ABC. There were some reports that China plans deploying 20 floating nuclear plants in the sea.
Edition quoted Sun claiming, “We do not make trouble, but we have no fear of trouble. China will not bear the consequences, nor will it allow any infringement upon its sovereignty and security interests or stay indifferent to the irresponsible behavior of some countries in and around the South China Sea.”
Over the years, several countries, including Brunei, China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam have been in dispute over the sovereignty of various island chains and surrounding waters. Their actions have triggered several standoffs and flash points in recent years.
China, however, holds great risks of erecting a Great Wall of self-isolation implemented through policies in the regions. It was stated by Sun that China would not comply with the case initiated by the Philippines in the permanent court of arbitration in The Hague, which indicates that the arbitration award is not binding on China.
“The Chinese government has repeatedly stated that it shall not accept nor participate in the so-called arbitration and shall not recognize or honor the award,” according to Sun.
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