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Significance
Whitsun Reef lies in waters Manila claims as its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). China’s move met with an unexpectedly strong response from Manila, combining strong rhetoric, diplomatic protests and several releases of photographs from the scene.
Impacts
China’s presence suggests a possible interest in occupying the atoll.
Whitsun Reef may have territorial status under international law, complicating Manila’s efforts to claim the area as part of its EEZ.
Hanoi’s own claim to Whitsun Reef could either help or hinder Manila’s opposition to China’s presence.
Keywords:
China,
Philippines,
AP,
Vietnam,
CHINA/PHILIPPINES,
international relations,
security,
fishing
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2021
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