by Xinhua Writer Sun Ding
BEIJING, Dec. 15 (Xinhua) -- The "dual-track" approach China has advocated over the South China Sea issue is the most viable and effective course of action as it truly respects the interests of the parties concerned, Chinese experts say.
"The 'dual-track' approach is at present the most effective and viable solution to easing and thus resolving tensions in the South China Sea while maintaining peace, stability, and momentum of cooperation and development in the Southeast Asian region," said Ling Dequan, a researcher with the Center for World Affairs Studies, a Xinhua affiliate.
The "dual-track" approach envisages the handling of bilateral disputes by the countries directly concerned through friendly negotiations, and the maintenance of peace and stability in the South China Sea through joint efforts of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
"Respecting concerns of all sides, the 'dual-track' approach could properly handle territorial disputes and tensions through friendly consultations and negotiations, and therefore pave the way for an ultimate solution that will be accepted by all parties involved," Ling said.
With regard to Manila's move to seek international arbitration over its territorial spats with China, Ling said China's policy on the South China Sea issue is unswerving.
The strategic partnership between China and ASEAN will continue to deepen, said Ling. "It is a common desire that the South China Sea would be one that enjoys endured peace, everlasting friendship and fruitful cooperation."
Xu Liping, a research fellow with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the "dual-track" approach was not unilaterally initiated by China but rather a constructive agreement reached between China and countries directly concerned over the South China Sea issue.
"The approach is both feasible and pragmatic, and has already won wide recognition and support in the region," said Xu.
"With the 'dual-track' approach, China demonstrates its flexible, pragmatic and principle-oriented attitude in resolving relevant disputes."
On China's rejection of international arbitration, Xu said China's stance conforms to both international law and common practice.
Wang Xiaopeng, also a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the "dual-track" approach sets the tone for resolving the South China Sea issue.
Noting that countries directly concerned should seek a peaceful resolution to the issue, Wang said the situation in the South China Sea is on the whole stable thanks to the long-term strategic mutual trust that has been built over the years between China and ASEAN countries.
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Backgrounder: China's stands on South China Sea disputes
Commentary: UNCLOS a red herring in China-Philippines row
BEIJING, Dec. 15 (Xinhua) -- The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), under which the Philippines has been seeking international arbitration over its territorial spats with China in the South China Sea, is really a red herring in this case.
As of Monday, the deadline given to Beijing by the arbitral tribunal to submit its counter-memorial, China has repeatedly stated that it will neither accept nor participate in the proceeding which could do nothing to help, but stir bigger waves in the South China Sea. Full story
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