The China in Africa Podcast
[GLOBAL SOUTH] South China Sea Update: Will the U.S. Really Defend the Philippines Against China?
Apr 14, 2025
Ray Powell, Director of the Sea Light Initiative at Stanford, and Edwin Shri Bimo, CGSP's Southeast Asia Editor, unpack the complexities of the South China Sea tensions. They discuss the recent near-collision incidents between the Philippines and China and how this strains regional dynamics. The conversation highlights the Philippines' military upgrades and U.S. commitment to its defense, contrasting with America’s stance on other allies. They also examine Indonesia's role in the territorial disputes and the historical context shaping these geopolitical anxieties.
45:55
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Quick takeaways
- The escalating tensions in the South China Sea involve dangerous encounters between Chinese and Philippine vessels, highlighting unresolved sovereignty issues.
- The Philippines is modernizing its military capabilities with U.S. support, aiming to bolster its defense against China's increasing assertiveness in the region.
Deep dives
Rising Tensions in the South China Sea
Recent events in the South China Sea highlight escalating tensions between the Philippines and China, particularly around disputed areas like the Scarborough Shoal. A near collision occurred as Chinese and Philippine Coast Guard vessels engaged in dangerous maneuvers, showcasing ongoing confrontations in these contested waters. The Philippines Coast Guard reported that a Chinese vessel attempted to collide with their ship, underscoring the risks involved in these encounters. Reports also indicate a lack of recent media transparency from the Philippines, which may contribute to diminished public awareness of these developments.
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