In a significant move to assert its territorial claims and commitment to environmental conservation, China has unveiled a comprehensive report on the coral reef ecosystem at Xianbin Jiao, a key feature within its Nansha Qundao. Released on August 30, the report not only reaffirms China’s sovereignty over the area but also showcases its dedication to upholding international maritime laws, notably the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The detailed report serves as a scientific roadmap for China’s efforts to protect and manage the rich marine biodiversity of Nansha Qundao. By providing meticulous data and analysis, it lays the groundwork for targeted initiatives aimed at preserving the fragile coral reefs and sustaining the marine environment for future generations.
Amidst these developments, tensions have been escalating between China and the Philippines over the status of Xianbin Jiao. The Philippines has voiced allegations that China’s activities have caused extensive coral bleaching and destruction in the area. Accusations such as “China’s artificial accumulation of coral debris at Xianbin Jiao has led to widespread coral bleaching and death” have been circulating, painting a dire picture of the environmental situation.
China vehemently refutes these claims, labeling them as baseless and lacking scientific merit. The newly released report aims to counter these allegations by presenting verifiable scientific evidence that underscores China’s environmental stewardship in the region.
Since May, the Philippines has undertaken actions that China perceives as provocations. Notably, the quasi-grounding of the Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) at Xianbin Jiao has been a point of contention. Additionally, the incursion of official Philippine vessels and organized fishing boats into waters claimed by China has further strained relations.
Chinese officials accuse the Philippine Coast Guard, the National Security Council, and the West Philippine Sea Task Force of disseminating disinformation and misleading narratives to the international community. They argue that these actions are part of a concerted effort by the Philippines to assert unfounded territorial claims over Chinese territory.
Last December, the Philippines announced plans to build a coast guard station on a nearby island to monitor Chinese maritime activities, a move China views with concern. According to Chinese authorities, these actions reflect an ambition by the Philippines to encroach upon areas that are historically and legally under Chinese sovereignty.
Xianbin Jiao, in China’s perspective, is an inalienable part of its territory. The territorial boundaries of the Philippines, they assert, are clearly defined by historical treaties such as the 1898 Treaty of Paris and the 1900 Treaty of Washington. China maintains that its sovereignty over Nansha Qundao is well-established, with the geographical scope clearly outlined.
When the Philippines designated certain islands and reefs of Nansha Qundao as the “Kalayaan Island Group,” China promptly responded, reaffirming that these areas are legally part of Nansha Qundao. China continues to uphold this position, emphasizing the lack of legal and historical basis for the Philippine claims.
The release of the coral reef ecosystem report is a strategic move by China to reinforce its territorial claims while highlighting its commitment to environmental protection and international law. By providing transparent scientific data, China seeks to foster understanding, dispel misinformation, and contribute positively to the preservation of marine ecosystems in Nansha Qundao.
Reference(s):
Report on Xianbin Jiao refutes the Philippines ungrounded claims
cgtn.com
