By Thuc D. Pham
Divergent views on how to handle SCS disputes could still inspire a Code of Conduct.
Although China has tactically reduced tensions in the South China Sea (SCS) by removing its oil rig HD981, paramilitary and naval forces from Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), the region was still high on the agenda at the 21st ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) on August 10 in Naypyidaw, Myanmar. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry proposed a “freeze” on actions in the SCS. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for the first time brought up a “dual-track” approach to solving SCS problems, and called for a ”21st century security concept.” The two initiatives seem to belong to two different worlds.
Stark Differences
Top Chinese and U.S. diplomats at the ARF introduced very different descriptions of the situation in the SCS. “Some claimants have taken provocative steps that are obviously aimed at changing the status quo. Tensions have spiked… Trade has suffered. And relations between neighbors have deteriorated… Vessels have engaged in dangerous behavior and are challenging each other… That’s why we questioned China’s decision to begin drilling operations – accompanied by numerous paramilitary vessels,” said Kerry. In response, Wang challenged the U.S.’s advocacy by arguing that the “situation in the SCS is generally stable, and the freedom of navigation there has never seen any problems,” and “countries out of the region can have their legitimate concerns, but if they come here for finger-pointing, then we are opposed to that.”
Read the full story at The Diplomat