UNIT 3 AOS 2 DIFFERING INTERPRETATIONS

Question 1

National security (differing interpretations of national interests)

Answer 1

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) believes that militarizing the South China Sea (SCS) is necessary to protect its territorial integrity and sovereignty. For example, in 2020, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that China’s 27 military outposts in the SCS “safeguard” its interests by strengthening control over the nine-dash line. However, other countries with claims in the SCS, like the Philippines, see China’s actions as violating international law. In 2020, Philippine Foreign Secretary Ted Locsin said China’s military expansion in the Scarborough Shoal was a “violation of international law” and their sovereignty, showing conflicting views on China’s national security efforts.

Question 2

Economic prosperity (differing interpretations of national interests)

Answer 2

The CCP views China’s militarization of the South China Sea as necessary to support its economic growth. By 2020, China had established 27 military outposts in the region to strengthen its control over the nine-dash line claim. A 2018 Chinese position paper stated that one goal of this military expansion is to support oil and gas exploration, contributing to China’s economic prosperity. However, other countries with claims in the area, like the Philippines, see China’s actions as violating international law. In 2020, Philippine Foreign Secretary Ted Locsin said China’s military presence in the Scarborough Shoal was a “violation of international law and Philippine sovereignty.”

Question 3

Regional relationships (differing interpretations of national interests)

Answer 3

China views its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a way to strengthen regional relationships. In 2018, President Xi Jinping described the BRI as a plan to boost regional connections and promote “harmonious coexistence.” This was seen in 2016 when China offered the Philippines $24 billion in credit and loans to support President Duterte’s “build, build, build” infrastructure project. On the other hand, the USA sees the BRI as harmful. In 2018, Vice President Mike Pence called it “debt trap diplomacy,” accusing China of using the initiative to further its own goals while harming the economies of recipient countries.

Question 4

International standing (differing interpretations of national interests)

Answer 4

China views its Confucius Institutes (CIs) as a way to improve its international reputation. By 2020, there were nearly 550 CIs worldwide, promoting Chinese language and culture. In 2018, President Xi Jinping stated that the CIs help China be seen as a “recognised builder of world peace” and highlight its long civilizational history, enhancing its global image. However, others see the CIs as harmful to academic freedom. In 2019, FBI director Chris Wray testified that the CIs spread “CCP propaganda” and raised concerns about restricting free speech, showing a different view of China’s pursuit of international standing.