Southeastern Border of China
China is a vast country located in East Asia, bordered by 14 neighboring nations and spanning over 9.6 million square kilometers. Its southeastern border is comprised mainly of water bodies, with several seas and straits surrounding the region. The southeastern region of China is a vital part of the country, as it serves as a gateway to many of its major ports and harbors. In this article, we will explore which sea is located on the southeastern border of China and the significance it holds.
Geography: Location of China’s Southeastern Border
China’s southeastern border is mainly formed by water bodies. The region is bordered by the South China Sea to the south, the East China Sea to the east, and the Taiwan Strait to the southeast. The South China Sea is the largest body of water in the southeastern border of China, and it is a critical area for international trade and commerce.
Which Sea is on China’s Southeastern Border?
The sea that is located on China’s southeastern border is the South China Sea. This sea covers an area of approximately 1.4 million square miles, making it one of the largest seas in the world. The South China Sea is bordered by several countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
The South China Sea: A Brief Overview
The South China Sea is a critical waterway for international trade and commerce, as it serves as a major shipping route between Asia and Europe. The sea is rich in natural resources, including fish, oil, and natural gas, making it one of the most valuable bodies of water in the world. However, the South China Sea is also a source of territorial disputes among the countries that border it, as several nations claim ownership over various islands, reefs, and shoals in the area.
Territorial Disputes in the South China Sea
Several territorial disputes have arisen in the South China Sea, primarily centered on the Spratly and Paracel Islands, both of which are claimed by various countries in the region. The Spratly Islands, located in the southern part of the sea, are claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei. The Paracel Islands, located in the northern part of the sea, are claimed by China, Vietnam, and Taiwan.
China’s Claims in the South China Sea
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, citing historical evidence and its traditional fishing grounds as the basis for its claims. In recent years, China has been building artificial islands and military facilities in the disputed waters, causing concern among its neighboring countries and the international community. The United States has criticized China’s actions in the area and has conducted freedom of navigation operations to challenge China’s territorial claims.
International Law and the South China Sea
Several international laws and conventions govern the territorial disputes in the South China Sea, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). UNCLOS provides a framework for resolving disputes between countries regarding maritime boundaries, fishery rights, and other issues related to the use of oceans and seas. However, not all countries in the region have ratified this convention, and disputes in the South China Sea continue to persist.
Other Countries Involved in the South China Sea Dispute
Several countries outside of the region, including the United States and Japan, have become involved in the South China Sea dispute due to their economic and strategic interests in the area. The United States has been conducting freedom of navigation operations in the disputed waters, while Japan has expressed concerns over China’s territorial claims and military build-up in the region.
The Importance of the South China Sea
The South China Sea is an essential waterway for international trade and commerce, with more than 30% of the world’s trade passing through the area. The sea is also significant for its natural resources, including fish, oil, and natural gas. The territorial disputes in the South China Sea could have significant implications for regional stability and global economic growth.
China’s Military Build-up in the South China Sea
China’s military build-up in the South China Sea has been a source of concern for its neighboring countries and the international community. China has been constructing artificial islands and military facilities in the disputed waters, and its navy has been conducting regular patrols in the area. The United States and Japan have criticized China’s actions, calling for a peaceful resolution to the territorial disputes in the area.
Conclusion: The Future of the South China Sea
The territorial disputes in the South China Sea are likely to continue in the foreseeable future, with several countries in the region holding competing claims over various islands, reefs, and shoals in the area. The United States and Japan are likely to continue their involvement in the dispute due to their strategic and economic interests in the region. The future of the South China Sea remains uncertain, with the potential for conflict and instability looming over the region.
References and Further Reading
- United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
- Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
- Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
- U.S. Department of State
- East Asia Forum