Political Considerations Shape U.S. Freedom of Navigation Operations in South China Sea

Differences over freedom of navigation mainly originate from different interpretations of UNCLOS. As China extends the reaches of its maritime power, the operational capability at sea of the PLA Navy may be constrained due to the question of EEZ jurisdiction, which will invite cooperation with the US at appropriate times. The two countries would benefit from developing a common language on freedom of navigation.

Hai Boping Guest Researcher, School of International Studies, Peking University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Or4TsP