Amidst the increasing tension between America and Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz in the Middle East, China has also made its strategic move in the other corner of Asia. While the eyes of the world are fixed on this important oil route, China is quietly busy strengthening its hold in the South China Sea.
China Trying to impose restrictions on Scarborough Shoal. This is a maritime area that has been a center of dispute between China and the Philippines for a long time. Satellite images have revealed that China tried to almost close the entry point here through boats, coast guard ships and a large floating barrier.
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Scarborough Shoal is not just a small sea area, but it is considered to be a very rich area for fishing. This is why philippines Fishermen have been coming here for a long time. But China claims this entire area as its own, whereas it falls within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Philippines.
In recent developments, it was seen that China tried to stop the entry into this area by installing a floating barrier about 350 meters long. Along with this, many Chinese fishing boats and coast guard ships were deployed there. The Philippines alleges that China is continuously exerting pressure in this area through its “Maritime Militia” and driving away their fishermen.
Although the Philippines has removed such barriers before also, but this time China’s presence appeared more aggressive. According to Reuters report, the Philippines has also sent its coast guard and navy ships there in response, which has further increased the risk of conflict.
This tension is not limited to just two countries. America Also stands with the Philippines in this entire matter. Recently both the countries have conducted joint military exercises near this area. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also strengthened its relations with America against China’s growing dominance.
Experts believe that China is taking advantage of this time. Because America’s focus right now iran And there is more on the Strait of Hormuz, in such a situation China is trying to strengthen its position in the South China Sea.
In fact, China has been controlling Scarborough Shoal since 2012. In 2016, the International Court had also given a verdict in favor of the Philippines, but China refused to accept it. Since then this area has remained a center of constant tension.
Now the situation is such that on one hand the oil route to the Middle East is in danger, while on the other hand another major route of trade and maritime security in Asia may be in danger.
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