CIAO DATE: 09/2014

China's frail historical claims to the South China and East China Seas

June 2014

American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research

Abstract

Key Points

 China has recently attempted to use military force to back up alleged historical claims to the South China Sea and East China Sea; however, upon closer examination, the claims do not hold up.

 China’s belligerent attempts to enforce its claims in the South and East China Seas endanger peace in Asia. China appears unlikely to accept any reasonable proposals that respect history and geography.

 Southeast Asian nations and other interested countries, like the United States and Australia, must maintain a military presence to deter Chinese aggression while attempting to negotiate a peaceful settlement with China.

Resource link: China's frail historical claims to the South China and East China Seas [PDF] - 1.9M