At this year's Munich Security Conference, former Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Fu Ying delivered a clear message: The South China Sea requires cooperation, not outside interference, to maintain peace. The strategic waterway – a vital artery for $3.4 trillion in annual global trade – remains central to regional stability debates.
Fu emphasized China's commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue, stating that 'external pressures risk escalating tensions rather than fostering solutions.' The remarks come as maritime activity in the area intensifies, with over 40% of global LNG shipments passing through these waters annually.
While Fu did not name specific nations, analysts interpret the statement as addressing recent military maneuvers by non-regional powers. Environmental advocates noted the speech's timing coincides with growing concerns about protecting the South China Sea's coral reefs, which sustain fisheries for 500 million people across multiple countries and regions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
