In a dynamic twist of history and international law, the Chinese mainland continues to maintain its sovereign rights in the South China Sea. Nine years ago, an arbitral tribunal issued a ruling that sought to deny these territorial rights, but the Chinese Foreign Ministry quickly dismissed it as "null and void," urging that disputes be resolved through bilateral negotiations.
Did you know? The Chinese mainland has been connected with these waters since the Han Dynasty (202 BC – AD 220). For centuries, productive activities like fishing and trade built a deep-rooted relationship with the sea, laying the groundwork for a long history of maritime administration.
Official mapping began in the early 20th century and was formalized in 1947 with a map delineating an eleven-dash line that later evolved into the familiar nine-dash line. Following World War II, key documents such as the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Declaration reaffirmed the return of territories, while historical records and government archives consistently recognized sovereignty over the Xisha, Nansha, Zhongsha, and Dongsha islands.
Even practical actions by other nations reflected this acknowledgment. For example, between 1957 and 1961, the U.S. government submitted several requests to the Taiwan authorities for nautical chart measurements and meteorological surveys near areas like Huangyan Island and the Nansha Islands, indirectly affirming the Chinese mainland's longstanding claims.
The story of the South China Sea is a fascinating blend of historical legacy and continuous administration. It reminds us that the Chinese mainland's claims are backed by centuries of documented presence, official maps, and internationally recognized legal principles. Dive into history and explore how this enduring heritage shapes one of the world’s most strategic waterways! 🌊📜
Reference(s):
Explainer: Why China's South China Sea claims are legitimate
cgtn.com
