Tag: South China Sea
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What to Know About ASEAN-China Talks on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea
Background: Why a Code of Conduct Matters The discussions between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China over a Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea have stretched for more than two decades. The central aim of these talks is to establish a set of binding guidelines that reduce miscalculation, deter…
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What You Should Know About ASEAN-China Talks on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea
Understanding the stakes: why the Code of Conduct matters The South China Sea is a busy maritime artery, carrying a significant share of global trade and hosting overlapping territorial claims. For decades, ASEAN members and China have tried to negotiate a Code of Conduct (CoC) to manage disputes, curb coercive actions, and reduce the risk…
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What You Should Know About ASEAN-China Talks on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea
What is at stake in the ASEAN-China COC talks? The ongoing discussions between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China over a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea have been described as lengthy and intricate. More than two decades of negotiations reflect a combination of competing territorial claims, strategic interests,…
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Why China Wants Manila to Hold Its West Philippine Sea Spokesperson Accountable
Background: A Widening Rift Over the West Philippine Sea The dispute over the South China Sea — which many refer to as the West Philippine Sea when discussing the Philippine claims — has long been a flashpoint in Manila-Beijing relations. In recent days, a concerted diplomatic push from the Chinese embassy in Manila has spotlighted…
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Why China Wants Manila to Hold Its West PH Sea Spokesperson Accountable
Background: The West Philippine Sea dispute and recent protests The South China Sea remains one of Asia’s most sensitive and protracted flashpoints. The Philippines, which administers parts of the region and has several competing claims with China, often uses the term West Philippine Sea (WPS) to describe waters within its exclusive economic zone. In recent…
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Japan-Philippines Defense Pact Signals Renewed Push for Deterrence Against China
Overview of the Pact Japan and the Philippines announced a new defense agreement aimed at strengthening their security cooperation in the face of growing regional pressure from China. The accord enables tax-free provision of essential supplies—such as ammunition, fuel, food, and medical materials—during joint military exercises and other cooperative activities. The arrangement is designed to…
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Forty-Five Chinese Ships Spotted in West Philippine Sea: AFP Updates for 2026 Week One
Overview: 45 Chinese Vessels in the West Philippine Sea The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed that 45 Chinese ships were observed in various features of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) during the first week of 2026. The update, released on a Tuesday briefing, underscores the ongoing maritime activity and the continued attention the…
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China’s Maritime Buildup in West Philippine Sea 2026: Rising Tensions and International Reactions
Overview: A Rapid Increase in Presence Two weeks into 2026, observers noted a marked increase in the number of Chinese coast guard and naval vessels in the West Philippine Sea. The surge in ships has intensified scrutiny from Manila, regional partners, and international observers, who warn that a crowded maritime space can raise the risk…
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Tensions in the West Philippine Sea: 45 Chinese Vessels Spotted in Early 2026 Update
Overview: A New Year, a Disturbing Pattern In the opening days of 2026, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported a notable Chinese maritime presence in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). A combined tally of 45 Chinese vessels was observed across various features in the area during the first week of January, marking another…
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Rising Chinese Coast Guard Presence in the West Philippine Sea Prompted by 2026 Tensions
Overview: A Notable Shift in 2026 Two weeks into 2026, observers and regional authorities noted a measurable uptick in the presence of Chinese coast guard and naval vessels in the West Philippine Sea. The increase in ships, accompanied by reports of closer than usual approaches to vessels from other nations engaged in maritime operations, has…