Why in the News?

In recent years, maritime East Asia has witnessed escalating power struggles, with China claiming Japan-controlled Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands in the East China Sea, sparking repeated tensions.

What are the current geopolitical tensions in the East and South China Seas?

• East China Sea: The main issue revolves around the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, claimed by both China and Japan.
  • Tensions have escalated through incidents like the arrest of a Chinese fishing boat captain and Japan’s nationalization of the islands in 2012. The area also witnesses Chinese Coast Guard incursions.
• South China Sea: China’s claims over most of the region, backed by aggressive actions such as the creation of artificial islands and naval exercises, have escalated tensions with Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
  • China’s “Nine-Dash Line” claims have been rejected by international tribunals, but Beijing continues to push these claims.

• USA Context: The U.S. maintains security alliances with Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, providing military backing. Joint exercises and increased cooperation between these allies.
  • The formation of the “Squad” (US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines) highlights the coordination to counterbalance China’s influence.

How do climate change and environmental factors impact storm patterns in these regions?

• Storm Patterns and Rising Seas: The region is highly vulnerable to extreme weather events, including typhoons, which are becoming more intense and frequent due to climate change.
  • Rising sea levels and changing storm patterns threaten coastal communities, military installations, and infrastructure.
• Erosion of Islands: The creation of artificial islands by China is accelerating coastal erosion and destroying coral reefs, which are critical to local marine ecosystems.

What are the implications of military activities by regional powers in the East and South China Seas?

• Growing Militarization: China has rapidly expanded its military presence, including the construction of airstrips, ports, and other defense infrastructure.
  • The Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militias have been active in harassing the vessels of other claimant states, particularly in the South China Sea.
• Challenge the US Navy: China’s military activities are seen as part of its broader strategy to challenge U.S. naval supremacy in the Indo-Pacific. This strategy also includes controlling vital sea lanes, undersea cables, and energy reserves.

How are local communities and economies affected?

• Economic Disruption: China’s actions in the South China Sea, particularly around disputed fishing areas, have impacted local economies dependent on fishing.
• Maritime Trade: The region is home to critical sea lanes through which a significant portion of global trade, including energy supplies, passes. Any conflict or blockade in these waters would have severe global economic ramifications.
• Impact on Tourism: The increasing militarization and tension also negatively impact tourism in coastal areas.

Way forward: 

• Strengthening Maritime Partnerships: India should enhance its strategic maritime partnerships in the Indo-Pacific through forums like the Quad (India, U.S., Japan, and Australia) and ASEAN to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.
• Economic and Infrastructure Diplomacy: India can leverage initiatives like SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and enhance its economic presence by investing in infrastructure, connectivity, and capacity-building projects in Southeast Asian countries.

Mains PYQ:

Q South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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