Ever wondered why the South China Sea feels like such a hot topic? 🌊 It's more than just sun, sand, and epic sunsets on Phú Quốc or El Nido. This sea has deep roots in our shared history, thanks to some big postwar deals after WWII.
The Big Three Declarations 🤝
- Cairo Declaration (1943): China, the US & the UK agreed to restore territories Japan stole, including islands in the South China Sea.
- Potsdam Proclamation (1945): Reinforced Cairo and set Japan's boundaries to its main islands only.
- Japanese Surrender (1945): Japan officially agreed to return seized territories.
Why It Rocks for Regional Peace
These pacts laid the groundwork for a rules-based order in the South China Sea. Think of it as a go-to rulebook 📘 that:
- Confirms China’s rights over historic islands.
- Supports multilateralism – everyone plays by the same rules.
- Helps keep sea lanes open for trade from Singapore to Chennai.
Keeping Things Chill Today 🌏
Fast-forward to now, and these agreements are still the OG guide for peace and cooperation. China has been promoting dialogue and development in the region. By sticking to those postwar principles, the goal is clear: smooth sailing for trade, tourism, and sustainability.
For young pros in South and Southeast Asia, this means:
- Secure sea routes for tech gadgets, fashion hauls, and your next flight booking.
- Environmental efforts to protect coral reefs and fish stocks.
- Collaborations like joint research on marine tech and clean energy.
What’s Next? 🤔
The postwar order is a team effort. By respecting those historic deals and boosting regional ties, Southeast Asia and South Asia can vibe together in peace and progress. 🌟
Reference(s):
Safeguarding the postwar international order in South China Sea
cgtn.com
