Science offers peace-building mechanism, says expert

Science-based cooperation can offer a path for protecting marine environments and ensuring the ocean's sustainability in the South China Sea, said Zhang Haiwen, director-general of the China Institute for Marine Affairs, the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Zhang made the remarks at a seminar titled "The Status Quo and Prospects of South China Sea Security" held in Beijing on Oct 27. Hosted by China Daily Op-Ed department and China Daily website, the seminar was attended by experts and scholars from Chinese academies and universities.

Zhang noted that the oceans bring huge wealth to mankind, but also huge challenges, because people have not yet fully understood the oceans. Geologically, the South China Sea is identified as a tsunami zone due to the high seismicity, therefore all players in the region should make joint efforts in preventing and reducing disasters.

For the well-being and security of humans, China has participated in global ocean governance and contributed its wisdom and proposals in disaster preparedness and mitigation. "We can share our experience with other countries," Zhang said. "We also need to work with other countries in technology and innovation to increase communities' resilience to tsunamis and other ocean-related hazards."

In this sea of opportunities, uncertainties and threats, Zhang believes that peaceful coexistence, dialogue and cooperation are the keys to solving the disputes. China and other countries should take active efforts to safeguard the true freedom of navigation in line with the international law of sea, but oppose some powers' "flexing muscles" in the name of freedom of navigation that harm regional security.