By Rajeev Sharma
India has another challenge to its strategic and diplomatic interests in its near abroad, thanks to a new move from China.
Beijing has reportedly begun mapping the South China Sea, triggering fears that it is going to step up its oil exploration efforts to help reinforce its territorial claims. This comes as the Philippines is involved in a standoff with Chinese vessels in the region, suggesting escalating tensions in the area.
The latest Chinese move was confirmed by a report released by the National Administration of Surveying, Mapping and Geoinformation on March 25, the Economic Times noted. It said a working group jointly set up by 13 government agencies, including the ministries of foreign affairs, public security and commerce, will conduct geographical surveying of the South China Sea and draw up a map of the area to stake out “China’s stance” on territorial issues.
Read the full story at The Diplomat