Water Wars: Series of Summits Highlights Persistent Divisions in the South China Sea

Sep 9, 2016 | Chris Mirasola
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Staircase snubs notwithstanding, world leaders traded familiar talking points at this year’s G-20 Summit in Hangzhou, China. President Barack Obama stated that China should “abide by international law” and warned of “consequences” for “violating international rules and norms.” President Xi Jinping called on the United States to “play a constructive role” in the region’s peace and stability, but reiterated that China would continue to safeguard its sovereignty and maritime rights. President Obama similarly underscored “the United States’ unwavering commitment to the security of its treaty allies.”

The South China Sea continued to overshadow talks at ASEAN’s East Asia Summit later in the week. ASEAN’s joint statement noted “the concerns expressed by some Leaders on the land reclamations [sic] and escalation of activities” in the South China Sea, but did not mention the recent China/Philippines arbitral tribunal decision. Instead, China and ASEAN adopted communications protocols and established hotlines to avoid potential clashes at sea. Both sides also reaffirmed their respect for freedom of navigation and overflight and agreed to resolve territorial and jurisdictional disputes by peaceful means. This bonhomie, however, did not dispel other world leaders’ security concerns. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, for example, stressed the importance of adhering to the rule of law in the South China Sea, though he did not explicitly mention the tribunal decision.