The Impact of China-ASEAN Multilateral Cooperation on the Spratlys and Paracels Islands’ Conflicts

Abstract

The purpose of this research paper is to understand China’s underlying intentions in their multilateral cooperation with ASEAN on the Spratlys and Paracels islands of the South China Sea. The lingering disputes in the area are a destabilizing factor to the contenders, the region and in fact other regions of the world. China’s acceptance of a multilateral dialogue was seen as a welcome development towards a lasting solution to the sovereignty claims of the countries of ASEAN and China in particular. The objectives of this report were to explore the China-ASEAN multilateral cooperation and the impact of the cooperation on the Spratlys and Paracels Islands. Using a qualitative documentary research method, written publications like magazines, research reports, journals, news and newspaper reports, internet, and reports of organizations served as the main sources of data collection. The methodology follows an unobtrusive style of comparative historical research method which focuses on changes in multiple cases over time or on more than one nation or society at a single point in time. The cases explored were the reports of the workshops on “Managing Potential Conflicts in the South China Sea” (MPCSCS) and that of the “ASEAN Regional Forum” (ARF). The findings entails that China is using the cooperation to achieve a self-goal of regional hegemony in readiness to contest at the global hierarchy.