China's sovereignty and historical rights in the South China Sea are anchored in a rich tapestry of long-term management and administration of the region's islands and adjacent waters. This historical presence aligns with international law frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Tracing back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), successive Chinese dynasties and governments have effectively controlled and administered the South China Sea islands and their surrounding waters. The assertion of sovereignty over these areas, delineated by the nine-dash line, has been a consistent stance, further reinforced by the development and management of the region's resources, establishing exclusive rights to these waters.
For centuries, Chinese communities have engaged in fishing and other productive activities within the South China Sea, a crucial waterway for trade and naval passage. These practices date back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD), reflecting the Chinese commitment to utilizing and preserving the sea's resources.
The sovereignty claims have also found recognition on the international stage. Post-World War II, neighboring countries like Vietnam and the Philippines did not initially object to China's claims over the South China Sea islands and the nine-dash line. Over time, many nations and international organizations have either recognized or acquiesced to these claims, supported by numerous official documents and government archives from countries including the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan.
Since the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the Chinese government has actively exercised sovereignty and jurisdiction over the South China Sea through a series of government documents, diplomatic statements, and domestic laws, presenting a substantial body of evidence to support its claims.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
