Assessing China’s Practice of Peaceful Development and Peaceful Coexistence: China’s Behaviours towards the South China Sea Dispute

Abstract

China has long been known for its adherence to cultural and philosophical value in its foreign policy which becomes a guideline to pursue its interest in international relations. However, as China is rising both in economic and military power, it has a challenge with various international issues including territorial disputes with some countries. One of territorial dispute which is vital in China’s national interest is the South China Sea dispute because this area is rich with gas and oil reserves to support China’s industries. Examining China’s policy in the South China Sea is essential as this maritime dispute becomes Beijing’s core interest in recent decades and becomes a source of sovereignty and economic contestation. This study aims to assess whether China is consistent with its foreign policy guideline, peaceful coexistence and peaceful development, in its policy towards the South China Sea dispute. The structure of this paper is as follows. It will begin by briefly explaining the peaceful approach in China’s foreign policy then it will highlight China’s foreign policy in the South China Sea as a study case. Finally, it will examine whether China’s foreign policy contradicts with peaceful coexistence and peaceful development principles in the South China Sea. This study found that the objective of China’s foreign policy guideline is it would never become a threat to others even if it is getting stronger. Meanwhile, China’s behaviors in the South China Sea threaten other states, so there is an inconsistency with peaceful coexistence and peaceful development principles.