Economist Podcasts Shoal searching: the South China sea simmers
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Oct 17, 2024 Aaron Connolly, The Economist's Asia diplomatic editor, shares insights on the escalating tensions surrounding the South China Sea, highlighting aggressive encounters between Chinese coast guards and Filipino vessels. He discusses the implications for U.S.-Philippines relations and international support. Meanwhile, Stanley Pignall dives into the cultural clash sparked by the resurgence of wolves in Europe, addressing environmentalist concerns versus the realities faced by rural communities dealing with livestock losses.
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South China Sea Skirmishes
- The Philippines released footage of Chinese coast guards using axes and knives against Filipino boats in the South China Sea.
- A Filipino sailor lost a thumb, and a Philippine Coast Guard vessel was rammed, highlighting escalating tensions.
Long-Term Risks Remain
- While an immediate flashpoint seems averted due to a bilateral agreement between the Philippines and China, long-term risks remain.
- China appears to be probing for weaknesses in the US-Philippines alliance.
Three Disputes
- The South China Sea dispute involves three areas: Paracel Islands, Scarborough Shoal, and Spratly Islands.
- China controls the Paracels and Scarborough Shoal, with tensions highest in the Spratlys, where China has built military bases.