Outh china sea has assumed greater geopolitical significance in the present context. Explain.
Answers
The economic and military ascendance of China has caused ripples across the globe. Increased Chinese assertiveness has impacted geopolitics and the power relations.
South China Sea has been of particular concern because of its vast natural resources and strategic significance. Overlapping territorial claims made on parcel,sparty and shoal Islands by China with its neighbours has further aggravated tensions. China's Maritime neighbours have accused it off expansionist policy. China with its nine dash line has laid claims far exceeding the norms laid down by the United Nations convention on law of sea(UNCLOS).
Strait of malacca is considered as geostrategic choke point with significant amount of global trade (especially oil) while passing through it. Any disturbance in this region would significantly impact Chinese economy.
China's Maritime Silk Road (part of the belt and Road initiative) is perceived as an extension of a string of pearls theory. Mammoth infrastructure project setup to develop sports is being perceived as an attempt to expand Chinese naval capabilities. The Chinese investment has been criticized as a debt trap.
China last year announced that Air Defence Identification Zone(ADIZ) in south China sea which Japan and United States ignored.