TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THE CONTEXT: In a strategic move to address territorial disputes and bolster cooperation, the Philippines and Vietnam have inked agreements aimed at preventing incidents in the South China Sea.
EXPLANATION:
- The signing ceremony, which took place during Philippine President visit to Hanoi, underscores the growing alliance between the two Southeast Asian nations.
- However, this alignment is likely to draw scrutiny and disapproval from China, which asserts expansive claims over the contested waters.
- The agreements encompass various facets of collaboration, extending beyond maritime security.
- In addition to measures to prevent incidents in the South China Sea, both nations have committed to enhancing information-sharing and conducting training exchanges between their militaries.
- The diplomatic discussions also delved into trade, investment, and included the signing of a pivotal deal on rice, showcasing the multi-dimensional nature of their evolving partnership.
Strategic Significance of Rice Deal: Food Security and Economic Cooperation
- The signing of a significant rice deal holds implications beyond the immediate diplomatic context.
- Vietnam has agreed to supply the Philippines with 1.5 to 2 million metric tons of rice annually at affordable prices.
- This not only addresses concerns over food security but also solidifies economic ties between the two countries.
- The stability of rice supplies is of paramount importance, especially considering the global surge in prices due to climate change and disruptions in major exporting countries.
Addressing South China Sea Tensions: Concerns and Collaborative Efforts
- Philippine President, during his visit, expressed concerns over China’s perceived aggressions in the South China Sea.
- Incidents involving the Chinese coast guard, including a water cannon assault damaging a Philippine vessel, were highlighted.
- The agreements signed aim to foster maritime cooperation, prevent escalations, and promote trust between the coast guards of both nations.
- The delicate balance between asserting sovereignty and engaging in peaceful dialogue with China remains a focal point of the discussions.
De escalation Efforts: Diplomatic Interactions with China
- While in Hanoi, Philippine President conveyed his concerns to Vietnamese Prime Minister, emphasizing the need to deescalate tensions in the South China Sea.
- The Philippine leader disclosed discussions with Chinese President in November 2023, where both leaders agreed on the imperative to reduce tensions.
- However, the recent incidents and ongoing disputes underscore the challenges in achieving lasting stability in the region.
Potential for UN Involvement: Joint Submission on Continental Shelf Limits
- A notable development is the Philippines’ interest in a joint submission with Vietnam to the United Nations commission that deals with the limits of continental shelves.
- This move suggests a concerted effort to address maritime boundaries through established international frameworks, potentially paving the way for more transparent and regulated territorial claims.
SOUTH CHINA SEA DISPUTE
- The heart of the South China Sea dispute revolves around territorial claims to land features (islands and reefs) and their associated territorial waters.
- The major island and reef formations in the South China Sea are the Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands, Pratas, the Natuna Islands and Scarborough Shoal.
- As many as 70 disputed reefs and islets are under contention, with China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Taiwan all building more than 90 outposts on these disputed features.
- China claims up to 90% of the sea with its “nine-dash line” map and has physically expanded islands and constructed military installations to assert control.
- China has been particularly active in the Paracel and Spratly Islands, engaging in extensive dredging and artificial island-building, creating 3,200 acres of new land since 2013.
- China also controls the Scarborough Shoal through a constant Coast Guard presence.
Conclusion: Navigating Diplomacy in Tumultuous Waters
- The Philippines and Vietnam’s collaborative efforts signify a diplomatic balancing act in the face of heightened tensions in the South China Sea.
- The agreements, spanning maritime security, economic cooperation, and joint international submissions, reflect a nuanced approach to regional challenges.
- As these Southeast Asian nations navigate complex geopolitical waters, the evolving dynamics in the region will continue to shape the future of South China Sea politics.