Misleading Insights
Posted: 14 Feb 2013
Date Written: January 1, 2013
Abstract
With respect to China’s SCS map, some problems indeed exist, such as the presence of some vagueness, lack of accuracy in some aspects, slight inconsistency between maps of different times without being supplied with necessary explanations. However, all scholarly analyses and argumentations must be based on reasonable doubts and stem from a fair and neutral position, instead of resorting to groundless censure from a certain partial position. The U-shaped line drawn by the Chinese government in 1947 at the median position between China’s SCS islands and reefs and the coastlines of bordering States reflects the scope of China’s claims and its intent. The consistency of the claims has been maintained by PRC after 1949, while the claims have been recognized or acquiesced to by bordering States over a long period of time. Therefore, the map with the U-shaped line has strong probative force and weight under international law.
Keywords: South China Sea, U-shaped line, Map evidence, Evidentiary value, Will of the State, Consistency
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