The United States Navy (USN) conducted a freedom of navigation operation (FONOP) in the South China Sea on Jan 17 and, as anticipated, it created a current of excitement among security analysts. China’s activities are directed towards militarisation of the features in the South China Sea and to have firm control over the sea lanes of communication there. This strong position reflects China’s interests in enforcing her territorial claims and interests in the South China Sea. Singapore is holding the Asean’s chairmanship and is set to lead the bloc’s direction, including those relating to the South China Sea. South China Sea watchers would have found some clues in Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan’s speech delivered in December.

Source: New Strait Times February 07, 2018 01:18 UTC