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Opinion / Editorials

Respite for rethinking

(China Daily) Updated: 2012-05-17 08:10

Worldwide, fishing moratoriums have proven to be instrumental in curbing over-fishing and rehabilitating marine resources.

But the annual summer fishing moratorium imposed by China in the South China Sea, which commenced on Wednesday, could have an added value as it provides a good opportunity for Manila to resolve its dispute with Beijing over China's Huangyan Island through diplomatic means.

Although the foreign ministry explained on Monday that the ban is not related to the current maritime territorial dispute, it will certainly contribute to easing tensions in the area, as China's fishery authorities announced that the fishing moratorium covers most parts of the South China Sea, including Huangyan Island.

The Philippines should seize this chance to solve the dispute with Beijing in peace.

China's sovereignty over the island is indisputable and China would have the legal and moral grounds for using more aggressive means to defend its maritime territory.

Yet since the dispute flared up more than a month ago, China has chosen to exercise the utmost restraint and made continual efforts to de-escalate the tensions.

Commensurate with its role as a responsible country committed to peace and stability in the region and beyond, it has consistently sought to resolve the dispute through diplomatic negotiations.

Regrettably, Manila, for its part has consistently rejected Beijing's friendly overtures and insisted on testing Beijing's patience by repeatedly inflaming tensions and stirring up nationalist sentiment at home.

However, at last, Philippine President Benigno Aquino seems to have figured out the folly of this approach. Talking more sensibly on Monday, Aquino said the Huangyan Island dispute might soon be resolved as discussions with China had taken a clearer direction. And, according to Philippine media, he also implied that the Philippines might no longer push for international arbitration.

The fishing moratorium means the troubled waters near the island can now enjoy a moment of peace. Aquino should take this opportunity to match words with deeds and work with the Chinese side to address the situation through consultations, as a peaceful South China Sea caters to the interests of both sides.

(China Daily 05/17/2012 page8)

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