The South China Sea Dispute and China’s Diplomatic Perspective
# Prem Sagar Poudel
The South China Sea dispute has drawn significant international attention due to China’s historical claims, legal foundations, and recent developments in China-Philippines relations. Recently, the Philippines lodged a diplomatic protest against China, alleging “illegal activities.” However, China has consistently defended its actions as legitimate, citing historical precedent and international law.
China’s claim over the South China Sea is rooted in historical facts, cultural records, and legal principles. Historically, China has been conducting navigation, trade, and administrative activities in the region since the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). It was during this time that China introduced the “Nine-Dash Line” concept, which was formally included on the map of China in 1947.
From an international legal perspective, although the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) defines the “Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)” of coastal states, it cannot be applied easily simply in an area with complex historical ownership like the South China Sea.
The Philippines has recently protested the presence of China’s Coast Guard Vessel CCG 5901. But a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said, China’s actions were completely legal, lawful and reasonable.
Chinese researcher Li Kaisheng argues that “the Philippines’ stance is based on weak legal foundations.” Another researcher, Yang Xiao, states, “The Philippines is unnecessarily escalating the dispute by seeking U.S. support.”
In a conversation between the US President and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the US President expressed support for the Philippines’ diplomatic efforts in the South China Sea. However, analysts view this support as part of Washington’s broader geopolitical strategy. Given that U.S. foreign policy shifts with presidential administrations, this strategy may not have long-term effectiveness.
China has significantly strengthened its military strategy using advanced technologies. The PLA Xinjiang Military Command has conducted military drills in high-altitude areas utilizing drones, robotic dogs, and exoskeleton technology. The PLA Northern Theater Command has adopted a technology to neutralize explosives using high-power lasers.
“China is using unmanned equipment to make military and non-military operations more effective,” says expert Song Zhongping. Peaceful humanitarian assistance: China’s “Mission Harmony 2024” Not only in the military field, China is also making significant contributions in the humanitarian field.
The Chinese naval hospital ship “Peace Ark” recently visited 13 countries, and provided free healthcare. Achievements such as the treatment of 82,980 patients, 1,392 surgeries, 204 cataract operations, and the birth of 4 newborns, are examples of China’s humanitarian role. These efforts highlight China’s commitment to global humanitarian responsibilities.
China is clarifying its position in the South China Sea, proving its historical ownership and under international law. Although some countries have taken diplomatic activities against China due to the influence of Western nations, China continues to pursue its policy of strategic stability and peaceful development.
China is projecting its strong presence through military modernization, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic dialogue, rather than negative propaganda.
