China to set up ‘observation system’ to protect maritime power

BEIJING - China’s State Oceanic Administration has  announced plans to set up an offshore observation network by 2020 to cope with disasters, guarantee development of the coastal economy and protect China’s maritime interests. Released on Wednesday, the SOA’s guideline outlines major tasks set to be completed within the next five years, including building radar stations, tsunami warning observation stations and undersea observation and satellite operations.

This network – which stretches across coastal waters, high seas and polar waters – is described as “fundamental for China to strengthen its maritime power”.

There are a number of reasons for this new development in a maritime observational network: China Daily cites “growing international attention to China’s vast sea area and its rich natural marine resources. In particular, territorial tensions with neighboürs such as Japan, the Philippines and Vietnam have raised tensions for China’s maritime interests.

But with the situation generally remaining calm, the network will mainly be to ensure that sea routes are not disrupted by security challenges and disaster relief efforts are in place to cope with typhoons and/or tsunamis, the report says.  www.webershandwick.cn (ATI).