China to hold military drills off Paracel Islands ahead of Hague court ruling
While the exercise is seen as show of strength in disputed South China Sea, it doesn’t necessarily mean Beijing will adopt an aggressive posture following the decision, experts say
China will conduct military drills around the disputed Paracel Islands beginning this week, ahead of an international court ruling on territorial claims in the South China Sea.
The exercises will take place from Tuesday to next Monday and other ships were prohibited from entering the waters, according to an online statement by the Maritime Safety Administration.
It said the exercises would be held in an area east of Hainan Island and encompassing the Paracels, which are controlled by Beijing but also claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan.
China defiant after international tribunal sets date to announce its ruling on nation’s claims in South China Sea
The announcement came after the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague said last week it would deliver a ruling in a case brought by the Philippines against China’s claims on July 12.
While the case filed by the Philippines does not cover the Paracels, the timing of the drill is seen as a move by Beijing to showcase its military prowess.