Why China and the Philippines Disagree Over a Sea 🌊
Hey there! Have you ever wondered why countries sometimes argue over parts of the ocean? 🌍 Today, we’re going to talk about the South China Sea, a very important area of water in Asia. Let’s dive in! 🐠
What is the South China Sea?
The South China Sea is a large body of water that is important for many countries, including China and the Philippines. It’s full of fish, has valuable resources under the sea floor, and many ships pass through it every day. 🚢
Why is There a Disagreement?
Both China and the Philippines (along with other countries) claim some of the same areas in the South China Sea. This means they both say, “This part belongs to us!” 🤔 This has led to disagreements about who has the right to use certain parts of the sea.
The Arbitration in 2016
In 2016, the Philippines went to an international tribunal (like a special court) to ask for a ruling on the dispute. The tribunal made a decision that favored the Philippines. However, China did not accept this ruling. 🇨🇳
Why China Doesn’t Accept the Ruling
China believes that the tribunal’s decision was unfair and not legal. Dr. Wang Hanling, an expert on the law of the sea, says that the arbitration ignored important agreements that China and the Philippines had already made. He feels it was more about politics than about following the law. ⚖️
What’s Happening Now?
The disagreement continues, but it’s important for countries to talk and find peaceful solutions. After all, the ocean is something we all share! 🌊
Why Should We Care?
Understanding these issues helps us learn about how countries interact and solve problems. It also shows how important it is to communicate and work together. 😊
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
