East Asia is moving toward a new security order, but outside intervention has added uncertainty to this process.
How should we view the current security situation in East Asia? Who is causing security issues in the region? The two questions can help us think thoroughly, correctly understand the security situation in East Asia, and promote regional development and prosperity more confidently.
East Asia is undergoing historic changes, and enjoys rising international status. The overall security situation in the region is peaceful and stable, though for historical and practical reasons it still faces certain problems and challenges.
Although the South China Sea issue has been constantly hyped up, the sea is in fact totally free and safe for navigation. Both East Asian countries and outside powers have all benefited from freedom and safety of navigation in the South China Sea. Territorial disputes and freedom of navigation in the sea are two completely different matters.
China adheres to resolving disputes over territorial and maritime rights and interests with neighboring countries through bilateral negotiations. From the Diaoyu Islands dispute to the standoff over Huangyan Island, China has shown enough patience while firmly safeguarding its own core interests.
China seeks to deepen win-win cooperation and further promote friendly ties with other Asian countries. It invested nearly 20 billion U.S. dollars in Asia in 2011 alone, lifting regional economic cooperation to a new level. China's growing influence in East Asia is nor China’s fault nor a threat to other countries.
