In an era where the world’s oceans carry the lifeblood of global trade, the China Institute for Marine Affairs under the Ministry of Natural Resources has released a report challenging the legality of the U.S. concept of “freedom of navigation” operations.
The report argues that the U.S. defines its own standards and customary rules that conflict with international law and the practices of many countries. It criticizes this approach as lacking a legal basis and distorting the interpretation and development of maritime rules.
According to the report, the U.S. routinely relies on naval power to advance its national interests and geopolitical strategies. This, it claims, risks undermining regional peace and stability, and could disrupt the established international maritime order.
Labeling the operations as “illegal, unreasonable and marked by double standards,” the report calls for a rules-based approach rooted in universally recognized law and for multilateral dialogue to ensure open and stable sea lanes.
As debates over maritime rights intensify, this report opens a fresh chapter in global discussions on how to balance freedom of navigation with respect for international norms. What’s your perspective on these contested waters?
Reference(s):
Chinese report questions legality of U.S. 'freedom of navigation'
cgtn.com
