Rossiyskaya Gazeta | GA6 | Tackling Territorial Disputes in the South China Sea

The Sixth General Assembly is discussing possible solutions to territorial disputes in the South China Sea. This significant body of water is one of the world’s busiest trading regions. Several states accuse China of illegally claiming territorial rights from Western and other South Asian nations, giving rise to a spirited debate between the respective delegations. 

The committee recognizes the main factors to keep in mind when drafting resolutions are the economic trade repercussions. As China is one of the largest and most influential actors in global economics, their economic concerns are especially important. This is true especially for South Asian nations bordering the South China Sea such as the Philippines and Malaysia. Delegations are wary of China’s position and are promoting ways to de-escalate any disputes between China and opposing nations. 

It may be difficult for nations with limited regional presence like the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria to achieve an encompassing resolution in a peaceful direction due to the Chinese economy’s strong influence within the area. 

This issue is important to Russia as China is the nation’s largest trading partner. Any restriction to trade can result in a detrimental effect on Russia’s GDP and GNP. To ensure the continuation of mutually beneficial trade between the two nations, Russia supports Beijing’s claim to sections of the South China Sea. Russia would like to open negotiations between China and the rest of the committee to find a middle ground that would appease China’s right to territory and legal difficulties. 

GA6 will continue to move forward to create a resolution on this issue. There is hope for creative solutions that may appeal to all nations in the committee, such as the Philippines mentioned to  “allow only commercial vessels in the region”. The world economy is depending on the collaborative spirit of Sixth General Assembly and all its delegations.