Choppy waters
East and south, China makes a splash
“SEA of peace” is the title China has bestowed on its adjacent oceans. But sovereignty disputes between China and its neighbours still roil the waters. In recent weeks, Japan and Vietnam have complained about what they allege to be Chinese encroachments. Attaching blame is difficult. But at a time of a growing perception in the West that China is flexing its muscles (see article), countries closer to China's shores also worry that it might be getting more assertive. Their squabbles are often aggravated by rivalry over undersea oil and gas.
This article appeared in the Asia section of the print edition under the headline "Choppy waters"
More from Asia
Japan and South Korea are struggling with old-age poverty
Their problems may be instructive for other countries
The Philippines bans some genetically modified foods
But golden rice could help thousands of nutrient-deficient children
Meet the maharajas of the world’s biggest democracy
Indian officialdom still treats citizens like subjects