Foreign Policy

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Tajik President Emomali Rahmon said on Thursday that his country backs China's peaceful reunification, fully understands and firmly supports China's position on the South China Sea issue, and opposes any attempt to internationalize it.

1. https://www.globaltimes.cn/content/990247.shtml

Answered by Umedjon Majidi, and has been reviewed by Aksana Akhmedova

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Link The 71 countries that publicly support China’s position over the South China Sea dispute, with the dates of when that support was declared, stated, published, or released by diplomatic documents, talking points, or the media. Note that some countries made many statements; we have selected only one per country. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Doha Declaration 05/12/2016*

1. https://thediplomat.com/2016/07/who-supports-china-in-the-south-china-sea-and-why/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Aksana Akhmedova

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Link Egypt supports the stance of a number of Arab nations concerning China's position on the South China Sea issue, Abu Zaid said in an interview with Xinhua. Link the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Counselor Ahmed Abu Zeid affirmed Egypt’s support for the Arab position as expressed in the Doha Declaration issued, on May 12, 2016, which stated: “The Arab countries support the efforts of China and the countries concerned to find a peaceful solution to the disputes over territories and territorial waters through friendly consultations and negotiations, in accordance with bilateral agreements and relevant regional consensus, and stresses the need to respect the right enjoyed by sovereign states and states parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to choose ways to settle disputes of their own independent will.” Link The Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs about supporting China’s stance regarding South China Sea.

1. https://www.globaltimes.cn/content/990339.shtml
2. https://acpss.ahram.org.eg/News/5638.aspx
3. http://arabic.news.cn/2016-06/23/c_135461296.htm

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Aksana Akhmedova

Answer

Supporting Evidence

In 2016, the former Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Delcy Rodíguez (today she is the vice president of this country) supported the PRC’s claim to the South China Sea. Therefore, the Index country has adhered to the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 4 score.

1. http://ve.china-embassy.gov.cn/esp/sgxx/201605/t20160516_4542953.htm
2. https://thediplomat.com/2016/07/who-supports-china-in-the-south-china-sea-and-why/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

yes - “My government has shown support of PRC's territorial claims (such as on the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016.

1. https://www.globaltimes.cn/content/980087.shtml

Supplementary Notes

At the level of UNGA, My country is known to have supported the PRC on this

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

International Union Statement on Algeria in the South China Sea: Algeria in the China Sea is Chinese Since 2016

1. https://www.chinainarabic.org/?p=26429

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Filip Noubel

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The PRC's territorial claims are not something the Moldovan diplomacy has taken a stance on. However, the Reintegration Minister Oleg Serebrian once compared Moldova's dealings with its separatist region to the PRC's ”reunification file”, saying ”China is a very strong country, but the problem persists”. We would consider this an isolated statement and not a indication of the government's actual stance.

1. https://moldova.europalibera.org/a/oleg-serebrian-interviu-europa-libera/31655672.html

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Mădălina Voinea and Sorin Ionita

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Pakistan fully supports the PRC's position on territorial claims in the South China Sea..

1. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/pakistan-reiterates-support-for-china-over-taiwan-south-china-sea-issues/2891019

Supplementary Notes

Link. Link

1. https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202310/23/WS6535d4a2a31090682a5ea18d.html
2. https://www.mfa.gov.cn/zyxw/202310/t20231021_11165405.shtml

Answered by Shahzeb Jillani, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Both the Taliban and the former Afghan government supported PRC claims on the South China Sea.

1. http://news.cctv.com/2016/05/18/ARTI9KgcaW64KNMKgw9bKAwe160518.shtml
2. https://big5.sputniknews.cn/20160517/1019298865.html

Answered by Rahimullah Kakar, and has been reviewed by Niva Yau

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Nigeria supported China’s position in territorial disputes in the Pacific region.

1. https://academic.oup.com/book/42633/chapter/358096201

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Kenya backed China's territorial claim in 2016. The Kenyan government issued a statement expressing support for China's position on the South China Sea dispute. It states that the Government of the Republic of Kenya believes that any disputes in the South China Sea should be peacefully resolved through consultations and negotiations in accordance with bilateral agreements and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Kenya's Government further stated that it respected China's 'statement of optional exception', in light of Article 298 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. There is no new evidence to suggest that the position has changed. Therefore, the Index country has adhered to the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 4 score.

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4w7abJ030ic
2. https://web.archive.org/web/20160617043711/http://allafrica.com/stories/201606140827.html
3. http://ke.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zxyw/201606/t20160609_6816356.htm

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Yes, the DRC was among the countries that supported China's claims in 2016

1. https://thediplomat.com/2016/07/who-supports-china-in-the-south-china-sea-and-why/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Andronicus Sikula and Christian Rumu

Answer

Supporting Evidence

In a 2016 interview with Xinhua, Uganda's Foreign Minister is quoted as supporting China's position on the South China Sea. Therefore, Uganda has adhered to the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 4 score.

1. http://www.china.org.cn/world/Off_the_Wire/2016-05/30/content_38566392.htm
2. http://www.xinhuanet.com//english/2016-06/06/c_135417134.htm
3. http://paper.people.com.cn/rmrbhwb/html/2016-05/31/content_1683735.htm

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Agather Atuhaire

Answer

Supporting Evidence

According to Xinhua, Angola's Foreign Minister "supports China's legitimate rights and interests on issues concerning its core interests, including the South China Sea." Therefore, Angola has adhered to the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 4 score.

1. http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2016-07/09/c_135500830.htm
2. http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-01/15/c_136895452.htm

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Saudi Arabian officials tend to support China in the South China Sea dispute by criticising the US presence in the region.

1. https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/did-saudi-arabia-just-side-china-south-china-sea

Answered by Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat, and has been reviewed by Yeta Purnama

Answer

Supporting Evidence

There are 71 countries that support China's position in the South Sea Dispute, one of these countries is Qatar.

1. https://thediplomat.com/2016/07/who-supports-china-in-the-south-china-sea-and-why/

Answered by Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat, and has been reviewed by Yeta Purnama

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Technically, Cambodia has remained silent - however, the overwhelming view of observers of ASEAN and the South China Sea question is that Cambodia supports China's position in ASEAN meetings and decision-making.

Answered by Bradley J. Murg, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available.

Answered by Valeri Chechelashvili, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Answered by Una Aleksandra Berzina-Cerenkova, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Answered by Artak Kyurumyan, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Supplementary Notes

No evidence was found.

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by Aksana Akhmedova

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence was found.

Supplementary Notes

No evidence was found.

Answered by Danil Bekturganov and Tatyana Sedova, and has been reviewed by Aksana Akhmedova

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Answered by Farkhod Tolipov, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Link 2022 - Lebanon thanked China for its help in maintaining the Arab country's national peace and security, Mikati (PM) said, adding that the country always abides by the one-China principle. Link 2022 - "Lebanon supports China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and the importance of respecting the One-China principle," Lebanese caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdallah Bou Habib said during his meeting with Chine+J9se Ambassador to Lebanon Qian Minjian.

1. http://english.www.gov.cn/news/topnews/202212/10/content_WS6393c7d0c6d0a757729e43d5.html
2. https://english.news.cn/20220807/15f93b66e6ae454ab9e3da4e5cd52a63/c.html

Supplementary Notes

Link China's territorial sovereignty over the South China Sea is beyond doubt, said Lebanese Communist Party General Secretary Hanna Gharib while commenting on the arbitration case unilaterally initiated by the Philippines. "It was China that discovered these islands and named them as South China Sea Islands. Some countries' attempt to step into or occupy these islands is a violation of China's territorial sovereignty," said Gharib.

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzZrm-db0vI

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by Aksana Akhmedova

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not Available

Supplementary Notes

"Beijing, 29 November 2022 (TDI): Chinese President, Xi Jinping met with President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh of Mongolia on his state visit to China. In addition, the two countries are each other’s key neighbors maintaining a long-term, stable relationship, friendliness, and cooperation. In this regard, China and Mongolia shall respect each other’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and choice of development path, President Xi emphasized. Link "

1. https://thediplomaticinsight.com/china-mongolia-comprehensive-strategic-partnership/

Answered by Dulamkhorloo Baatar, and has been reviewed by Ani Kintsurashvili

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by Alonso Illueca, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

“No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.”

1. https://amti.csis.org/arbitration-support-tracker/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

1. https://ishr.ch/latest-updates/one-year-after-un-xinjiang-report-release-pressure-on-china-at-the-un-remains-steady/

Supplementary Notes

In August 2022, Pakistan on behalf of 72 countries opposed "interference in China's internal affairs", Peru is not listed as a signatory. However, it is known that Peru maintains silence on issues related to human rights and territorial disputes.

Answered by Jack Lo Lau and Jorge Jesús Chávez Ortíz, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Chile is one of the main supporters of a rule based maritime order and has abided by those rules in the past (Peru and Bolivia). Therefore its silence has a different weight.There are two reports by the Chilean Army that explain the Chiinese maritime aspiration in the SCS without a strong position.

1. https://revistamarina.cl/es/articulo/las-disputas-por-el-mar-de-china-meridional-un-problema-regional-que-exige-un-compromiso-global.

Supplementary Notes

The link is relevant despite being slightly outdated.

Answered by Sascha Hannig Núñez, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence has been found that this China Index country has adopted a clear position regarding what is described in the indicator. Therefore, this country has not commented on the territorial claims of the PRC, and the indicator obtains 2 points

1. https://ishr.ch/latest-updates/one-year-after-un-xinjiang-report-release-pressure-on-china-at-the-un-remains-steady/

Answered by Paúl Mena Mena, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

1. https://www.asil.org/insights/volume/27/issue/9

Supplementary Notes

Colombia has remained silent on any territorial disputes involving other countries in general and the case of China is not the exception. An important reason behind such a prolonged silence is likely to be Colombia's own territorial disputes, particularly with Nicaragua over the continental shelf in the Caribbean Sea, in the region where the islands of San Andres Providencia and Santa Catalina are located; an issue whose resolution may have an impact on other claims, among which, as the evidence shows, are China's disputes in the South China Sea.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Team Fundación Andrés Bello - Centro de Investigación Chino Latinoamericano

Answer

Supporting Evidence

I didn't see any report during the reporting period. But a 2016 article showed that Bangladesh supported China's claim.

1. https://thediplomat.com/2016/07/who-supports-china-in-the-south-china-sea-and-why/
2. https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2024/1/4/bangladesh-elections-mark-a-pro-china-tipping-point-in-south-asia

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Filip Noubel

Answer

Supporting Evidence

“No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.”

Answered by Rumena Filipova, and has been reviewed by Matej Šimalčík

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The Austrian Embassy in the Philippines signed together with the Delegation of the EU to the Philippines and other embassies of EU members a statement on the 7th anniversary of the award of the Arbitral Tribunal. Therein they emphasized that the award is "legally binding". However, no specific statement of the Austrian government could be found.

1. https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/philippines/local-eu-statement-anniversary-award-rendered-arbitration-between-republic-philippines-and-peoples_en?s=176

Supplementary Notes

As an EU member state, it could be argued that Austria indirectly follows the EEAS position opposing PRC territorial claims in the South China Sea (Link).

1. https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/south-china-sea-statement-spokesperson-challenges-peace-and-stability_en

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by Alfred Gerstl

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Hungary reportedly blocked and then watered down an EU statement in 2016, together with Greece and Croatia, that would have called upon China to abide by the ruling of the arbitrary tribunal. There was no voice of support, however, simply a rejection of the EU taking a position on the matter.A statement was later adopted with unanimity about the importance of adhering to international law without direct reference China.

1. https://www.euractiv.com/section/global-europe/news/eu-unable-to-adopt-statement-upholding-south-china-sea-ruling/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Kristina Kironska

Answer

Supporting Evidence

In a note following the PM visit to China, it was affirmed that China holds "its own vision on human rights and international law of the sea".

1. https://diplomatie.belgium.be/nl/beleid/beleidsthemas/uitgelicht/waarom-we-china-niet-loslaten

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Richard Turcsányi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Not a relevant issue for Bosnia and Herzegovina

Answered by Stefan Vladisavljev and 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Kristina Kironska

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of current Slovak government taking a definitive position on this issue. Therefore, it has remained silent on this issue.

Answered by Matej Šimalčík, and has been reviewed by Richard Turcsányi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

1. https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2023/02/the-many-one-chinas-multiple-approaches-to-taiwan-and-china?lang=en

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Richard Turcsányi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

1. https://www.iltalehti.fi/politiikka/a/ae910a12-dfe0-41db-a313-93028575f4ca
2. https://www.is.fi/politiikka/art-2000010126839.html
3. https://um.fi/documents/35732/48132/finland_s_action_plan_for_southeast_asia

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Richard Turcsányi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No URLS, this is naturally not something that is official policy, but it is well known.

Supplementary Notes

The Danish government has instead supported attempts to reach a joint EU position in this regard.

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by Kristina Kironska

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Ireland has remained sllent on the PRCs territorial cliams.

1. https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/question/2016-07-07/162/?highlight%5B0%5D=south&highlight%5B1%5D=china&highlight%5B2%5D=sea

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by Richard Turcsányi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of Montenegro taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

1. https://amti.csis.org/sides-in-south-china-sea/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

1. https://www.wsj.com/articles/eu-issues-south-china-sea-statement-after-failing-to-agree-common-stance-1468583961
2. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southchinasea-ruling-eu-idUSKCN0ZV1TS

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found from Turkey taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, Turkey has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of Iceland taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Romania didn't take any public stance over PRC territorial claims, but as a member of the EU, Romania supported the common EU position to reject the PRC's claims and support the 2016 UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal Award

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Mădălina Voinea and Sorin Ionita

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Ukraine never spoke publicly about this

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Mădălina Voinea and Sorin Ionita

Answer

Supporting Evidence

“No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.”

Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by Javier Melendez

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the Index country taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, the Index country has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Only support for the independence of Taiwan was found and no reference to other PRC's territorial claims.

1. https://www.hoy.com.py/nacionales/embajador-paraguayo-en-taiwan-china-viola-el-derecho-internacional

Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by Julieta Heduvan

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The Turkmen government has remained silent about the PRC's territorial claims, including the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016. There is no public record or official statement from the Turkmen government explicitly supporting or opposing the ruling or China's claims in the South China Sea.

1. NO LINK

Answered by Temur Umarov, and has been reviewed by Niva Yau

Answer

Supporting Evidence

At the time, the statement was "South Africa supports the position that the sovereign states that are directly concerned should resolve their relevant disputes through direct consultations and negotiations, on the basis of respecting historical facts and in accordance with international law, as well as to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea."" The last pronouncement in this regard was "South Africa has noted with concern the recent trend in the global arena to politicise the situation pertaining to the South China Sea... South Africa believes that the international community should support all efforts aimed at safeguarding peace and stability in the region."" This has been interpreted as support by China and has been reported as such without contradiction. But does not explicitly make support clear for either party.

1. https://www.gov.za/speeches/international-relations-territorial-dispute-regarding-south-china-sea-22-jun-2016-0000
2. https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/world/2016-06/23/content_25826714.htm

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

South China Sea: Senegal advocates dialogue between the countries concerned since 2016

1. http://french.xinhuanet.com/2016-07/08/c_135499165.htm

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

1. https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3248061/china-set-stay-neutral-ground-red-sea-storm-brews-over-ethiopias-port-deal-somaliland

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Singapore has remained silent on the claims of all states to the South China Sea, including those of the PRC. However, it accepts the Arbitral Tribunal ruling that features in the South China Sea are not islands capable of possessing Exclusive Economic Zones and supported the Arbitral Tribunal process, which the PRC rejected. Singapore advocates for the peaceful resolution of competing claims in accordance with prevailing international law, including UNCLOS as conventionally interpreted.

1. https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2016/07/MFA-Spokesmans-Comments-on-the-ruling-of-the-Arbitral-Tribunal-in-the-Philippines-v-China-case-under
2. https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2016/07/MFA-Press-Release-Transcript-of-Minister-for-Foreign-Affairs-Vivian-Balakrishnans-reply-to-the-Parli
3. https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2013/01/Transcript-of-Minister-for-Foreign-Affairs-K-Shanmugams-reply-to-Parliamentary-Questions-and-Supplem
4. https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2013/01/Minister-K-Shanmugams-speech-at-the-2013-annual-Turkish-Ambassadors-Conference-Ankara-Turkey-4-Janua
5. https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Overseas-Mission/Ministry-of-Foreign-Affairs---Permanent-Mission-of-the-Republic-of-Singapore/Press-Statements-Speeches/2013/01/press_20130123

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

According to a survey by The Diplomat portal, Brazil remained silent in 2016 about the dispute in the South China Sea. Furthermore, while Brazil's traditional position is one of support for China's territorial integrity, the country tends to remain silent. In addition, no evidence was found of a manifestation by Brazil on other territorial issues of the PRC.

1. https://thediplomat.com/2016/07/who-supports-china-in-the-south-china-sea-and-why/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of the index country taking a definitive position regarding this indicator. Therefore the index country has remained silent regarding the PRC territorial claim.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

In 2016, while the Nepal government remained silent on the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal's ruling, Nepal Workers and Peasants Party, an influential political party in Nepal, voiced its support for China's position on the South China Sea issue.

1. https://archive.ph/EvMLX#selection-353.12-353.169

Answered by Sriparna Pathak, and has been reviewed by Amish Mulmi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The support is tacit as part of the current Russian regime's "special" relationship with the PRC. Details are not publicly disclosed.

1. https://tass.ru/politika/12353925
2. https://russiancouncil.ru/blogs/anton-bredikhin/yukm-realnost-i-podkhod-rossii/

Supplementary Notes

Back in 2021, Russia retained a neutral stance on the territorial controversies in the South China Sea region. As the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, noted, "Our country’s position on this issue is consistent and unchanged. Russia is not a party to territorial disputes in the South China Sea and, as a matter of principle, does not take sides. We believe that the relevant consultations and negotiations should be conducted directly by the parties involved in a format determined by them themselves." It seems that in 2022, the stance remained the same.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 3 anonymous experts.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Zimbabwe has a policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.Zimbabwe has stood with China on all international conflicts and affairs.

1. http://www.chinafrica.cn/Homepage/202208/t20220805_800302875.html
2. https://web.archive.org/web/20230920073210/https://saiia.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/occasional-Paper-205.pdf

Answered by Ernest Mudzengi and Nancy Kambudzi, and has been reviewed by Andronicus Sikula and Dr. Obert Hodzi

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Timor-Leste has voiced out to keep the peace in South China Sea, the response that is suitable is remained silent as it has not go beyond denouncing PRC's claims.

1. https://www.macaubusiness.com/timor-leste-president-wants-more-cooperation-to-protect-seas/

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of Argentina taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, Argentina has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

1. http://spanish.peopledaily.com.cn/n3/2016/0721/c31621-9089204.html

Answered by Ricardo Ferrer Picado, and has been reviewed by Hernan Alberro

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of Uruguay taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, Uruguay has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

1. https://www.gub.uy/ministerio-relaciones-exteriores/comunicacion/comunicados/declaracion-conjunta-entre-republica-oriental-del-uruguay-republica#:~:text=La%20Parte%20uruguaya%20reafirma%20su,Gobierno%20chino%20para%20materializar%20la
2. https://ladiaria.com.uy/le-monde-diplomatique/articulo/2022/12/el-derecho-del-mar-se-tambalea-pero-no-se-hunde/

Answered by Ricardo Ferrer Picado, and has been reviewed by Hernan Alberro

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No evidence can be found of El Salvador taking a definitive position regarding this Indicator. Therefore, El Salvador has remained silent regarding the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 2 score.

Answered by Eric Lemus, and has been reviewed by Julio Martinez and Alvaro Cruz

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The Thai government has remained silent on the matter.

Answered by Pravit Rojanaphruk, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Myanmar decided to remain silent on PRC's territorial claims in the South China Sea and has only pushed for a peaceful solution.

1. https://www.slideshare.net/aung3/press-release-myanmars-statement-on-the-award-of-the-arbitral-tribunal-on-the-south-china-sea-under-annexure-vii-of-unclos-13-july-2016

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 2 anonymous experts.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

No recent evidence exists that Mozambiqueans officials expressed support for this matter and, while support can be inferred from other China-Mozambique statements, this indicator is marked as "2".

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sérgio Chichava

Answer

Supporting Evidence

As already explained in indicator 6 that Indonesia upholds the free and active policy, this is also implemented in the issues of China and Taiwan. However, in the context of the South China Sea issue, Indonesia is not empowered enough, perhaps because of its economic dependence on China, even when there is China Coast Guard activity approaching or even entering North Natuna waters, the Indonesian Navy only monitors it, even though based on UNCLOS, the area is Indonesian territory.

1. https://thediplomat.com/2022/08/china-indonesia-and-malaysia-waltzing-around-oil-rigs/

Answered by Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat, and has been reviewed by Yeta Purnama

Answer

Supporting Evidence

At the East Asia Summit (EAS) meeting in 2020, Wang Yi accused the US of intervening in the SCS for political reasons. At this meeting, Korea was also one of the members present, but hearing this statement there was no response criticizing the Korean delegation even though basically it was China that caused instability in the region.

1. https://www.hankookilbo.com/News/Read/A2020091009540001473

Answered by Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat, and has been reviewed by Yeta Purnama

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Israel remains silent on territorial disputes.

1. https://www.inss.org.il/publication/maritime-claims-on-the-rocks-the-international-arbitration-ruling-on-the-south-china-sea/

Answered by The Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

1. https://www.courrierinternational.com/article/vu-de-hong-kong-paris-defie-pekin-avec-une-patrouille-militaire-en-mer-de-chine-meridionale

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Filip Noubel

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Lithuania positively supported the July 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal. Its Indo-Pacific Strategy, issued in mid-2023, specifically mentioned China's military activity in the South China Sea as aggravating the security situation in the Indo-Pacific region. Lithuania's social media communication on the matter has also been plainly critical. Therefore, the index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim, and the indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://amti.csis.org/sides-in-south-china-sea/
2. https://urm.lt/uploads/default/documents/ENG%20Strategy.pdf
3. https://twitter.com/LithuaniaMFA/status/1734297559080858065

Answered by Konstantinas Andrijauskas, and has been reviewed by Vida Mačikėnaitė-Ambutavičienė and Linas Didvalis

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Albania has opposed the PRC’s territorial claim to the South China Sea. Therefore, Albania has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines_v._China
2. https://pca-cpa.org/en/cases/7/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Portugal usually sides with the EU position on these matters (see EU statement). Notwithstanding, due to mostly the Portuguese community in Macau, the Portuguese government avoids being vocal about it individually. Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2016/07/15/south-china-sea-arbitration/
2. https://www.ifri.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/etnc_report_us-china-europe_january_2020_complete.pdf

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

My country has rejected the PRC

1. https://www.rappler.com/nation/114816-italy-support-ph-south-china-sea-row/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Mădălina Voinea and Sorin Ionita

Answer

Supporting Evidence

My country has rejected the PRC

1. https://www.clingendael.org/publication/netherlands-and-indo-pacific-inclusive-not-value-neutral
2. https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/netherlands-southchina-sea-11172020161222.html

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Mădălina Voinea and Sorin Ionita

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Spain supports the free navigation of the South Sea.

1. https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/serviciosdeprensa/notasprensa/exteriores/Paginas/2020/030920-china.aspx

Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

In the case of the South China Sea arbitration, it has abided by the ruling issued by the UNCLOS which was against China. At the same time, India has opposed China's territorial claims over parts of India. Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://thewire.in/diplomacy/for-the-first-time-india-calls-for-abiding-by-the-2016-arbitral-award-on-south-china-sea
2. https://web.archive.org/web/20230923055354/https://thewire.in/diplomacy/for-the-first-time-india-calls-for-abiding-by-the-2016-arbitral-award-on-south-china-sea
3. https://www.voanews.com/a/india-protests-chinese-map-claiming-disputed-territories/7246891.html
4. https://web.archive.org/web/20230913174815/https://www.voanews.com/a/india-protests-chinese-map-claiming-disputed-territories/7246891.html

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Dr. Tenzin Tsultrim

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The existance of Taiwan itself is a deviation of PRC's territorial claims. Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://www.politico.eu/article/the-china-taiwan-dispute-explained-territory-semiconductors/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Czech Republic has rejected PRC`s claim through former NATO general (and current president) Petr Pavel. However, at the same time, then Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Jan Hamáček orally questioned the legality of such tribunal.

1. https://web.archive.org/web/20160623161040/http://asiamaritime.net/nato-general-says-china-should-respect-tribunal-on-maritime-claim/
2. https://hlidacipes.org/ministr-vnitra-i-zahranici-jan-hamacek-je-oblibencem-cinskeho-tisku/
3. https://web.archive.org/web/20240130141640/http://www.xinhuanet.com/world/2016-07/18/c_1119238237.htm

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The EU and its Member States acknowledged the ruling of the South China Sea Arbitration (Permanent Court of Arbitration case number 2013-19). Therefore, Esotnia has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2016/07/15/south-china-sea-arbitration/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly opposed the PRC’s territorial claim to the South China Sea. Vietnam also prohibits the propagation of products and prints that include China's ""nine-dash line"" map, which, according to the foreign ministry, falsely lays claim to Vietnamese territory. Although without naming the PRC, in his speech at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York (Sep 2023), Prime Minister of Vietnam claimed: “It is also necessary to exercise restraint and refrain from unilateral actions and address disputes and differences by peaceful means, including diplomatic and legal processes.” Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/vietnam-opposes-china-s-new-national-map-4648426.html
2. https://en.vietnamplus.vn/pm-delivers-speech-at-un-general-assemblys-general-debate/268463.vnp
3. https://baochinhphu.vn/viet-nam-co-day-du-co-so-de-khang-dinh-chu-quyen-doi-voi-hoang-sa-102240120131916233.htm
4. https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1v/k1v7ct450e
5. https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/vietnam-does-not-accept-products-prints-with-illegal-nine-dash-line-ministry-4626123.html

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Permanent Representative, H.E. Ms. Carolyn Schwalger "we continue "to hold serious concerns about developments in the South China Sea, particularly destabilising actions that pose risks to the freedom of navigation and overflight, guaranteed by UNCLOS. We call on all parties to commit to peaceful solutions and settle disputes in accordance with UNCLOS, as the Constitution for the Oceans."

1. https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/media-and-resources/united-nations-general-assembly-oceans-and-the-law-of-the-sea/

Answered by Catherine Churchman, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Malaysia’s position on the South China Sea is consistent and remains unchanged. The Government of Malaysia is unequivocally and firmly committed to protecting Malaysia’s sovereignty, sovereign rights and interests in its maritime areas in the South China Sea, as depicted by our 1979 Map. Malaysia firmly holds the view that matters relating to the South China Sea must be resolved peacefully and constructively, in accordance with the universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982 UNCLOS).

1. https://www.kln.gov.my/web/guest/-/malaysia-s-position-on-the-south-china-sea

Answered by 2 anonymous experts, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Unlike his predecessor, the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. opposed the PRC’s territorial claim to the South China Sea, upholding the 2016 arbitral award. "This country will not lose an inch of its territory. We will continue to uphold our territorial integrity and sovereignty in accordance with our constitution and with international law,” President Marcos said in a speech at a military alumni homecoming event in February 2023. He also rejected China’s new 10-dash-line map. The Philippines has filed 43 diplomatic protests against Chinese incursions in its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea from January to September alone. Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/02/19/2246069/marcos-philippines-will-not-lose-inch-territory
2. https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/09/30/news/marcos-vows-ph-will-defend-borders/1912408
3. https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/pbbm-vows-to-continue-defending-ph-territory-following-publication-of-chinas-new-map-featuring-10-dash-line/
4. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/882035/dfa-43-protests-filed-so-far-vs-chinese-incursions-in-2023/story/

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 4 anonymous experts.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Japan is itself an actor that has been facing the PRC's territorial claim over the Senkaku Islands. The Japanese MOFA states about Senkaku as follows: "There is no doubt that the Senkaku Islands are clearly an inherent part of the territory of Japan, in light of historical facts and based upon international law. Indeed, the Senkaku Islands are under the valid control of Japan. There exists no issue of territorial sovereignty to be resolved concerning the Senkaku Islands. Japan will act firmly and calmly to maintain its territorial integrity. Japan continues to strive for peace and stability in the region, which is to be established through the observance of international law."

1. https://www.mofa.go.jp/region/asia-paci/senkaku/index.html

Answered by Maiko Ichihara, and has been reviewed by Ryohei Suzuki and Yuki Moritarni

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Canada expressed strong opposition to China’s claim over South China Sea in 2016, and reconfirmed its stance in July 2023.

1. https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2016/07/canadian-statement-on-south-china-sea-arbitration.html
2. https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2023/07/statement-on-7th-anniversary-of-2016-south-china-sea-arbitral-tribunal-ruling.html

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Terry Glavin

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The US State Department has "call[ed] upon the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to respect the international law of the sea in the South China Sea, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and its legal obligations pursuant to the 2016 arbitral ruling." Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.”

1. https://www.state.gov/u-s-support-for-the-philippines-in-the-south-china-sea-2/#:~:text=The%20United%20States%20supports%20the,to%20the%202016%20arbitral%20ruling.

Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Since 2019, Germany has taken positions countering PRC's South China Sea claims.

1. https://gpil.jura.uni-bonn.de/2021/04/germany-counters-chinas-maritime-claims-in-the-south-china-sea/
2. https://carnegieendowment.org/2023/02/09/many-one-chinas-multiple-approaches-to-taiwan-and-china-pub-89003-"

Answered by Angela Stanzel, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.

Answer

Supporting Evidence

The UK government has called on China to abide by the Arbitral Tribunal's decision on the issue of sovereignty in the South China Sea. Additionally, it opposes claims that are not in line with the UNCLOS. Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://www.politico.eu/article/britain-prime-minister-rishi-sunak-ranks-china-top-threat-global-security-g7-summit/
2. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-statement-on-the-south-china-sea#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20UK%20does%20not%20take,and%20stable%20South%20China%20Sea

Answered by Leo Shaw, and has been reviewed by Sam Dunning and Andrew Yeh

Answer

Supporting Evidence

Australia's permanent mission objected to China's territorial claims in the South China Sea in a letter to the United Nations in 2020. Then-Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese also backed the stance. In the Defense Strategic Review 2023, it is stated that China's declaration of sovereignty in the South China Sea threatens the global rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. The Defense Minister Richard Marles also said Australia would continue to exercise its right of passage in the South China Sea despite China's objections. Therefore, the Index country has rejected the PRC’s territorial claim and the Indicator warrants a 0 score.

1. https://www.defence.gov.au/about/reviews-inquiries/defence-strategic-review
2. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-25/federal-government-joins-rejects-china-maritime-claims-at-un/12492070
3. https://www.voanews.com/a/australia-vows-to-continue-to-monitor-south-china-sea-after-military-close-encounter/6617022.html

Answered by Leo Shaw, and has been reviewed by Kevin Mooney and Andrew Yeh