The Xinhua Institute report highlights China’s commitment to building the South China Sea as a space of peace, friendship, and cooperation. China is portrayed as a promoter of stability and cooperation with ASEAN countries, emphasizing principles of equality, rule-based governance, and mutual benefits. The report calls for joint efforts to maintain regional peace and development, with experts considering it a significant academic contribution to the study of South China Sea issues.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets tend to emphasize China’s narrative of peaceful cooperation and regional stability, highlighting the importance of multilateral dialogue and economic partnerships with ASEAN countries. They may also critique Western military presence in the region as a source of tension.
Center: Centrist sources report on China’s official statements and the Xinhua report neutrally, presenting the facts about China’s efforts to promote peace and cooperation in the South China Sea, while acknowledging the complexity of territorial disputes and the interests of multiple stakeholders.
Right: Right-leaning media often express skepticism about China’s intentions, viewing the report as propaganda aimed at legitimizing China’s territorial claims. They emphasize concerns about China’s military expansion and assertiveness in the South China Sea, warning about threats to freedom of navigation and regional security.
