News:

Concerns over China’s growing show of power over the region has escalated into new level when riots broke off in Vietnam in response to the recent claim of China’s illegal oil rig placement in the disputed territorial water with Vietnam.

Major news sources reported China had ordered an evacuation of its nationals in Vietnam after series of violent riots erupted in Vietnam causing at least two Chinese citizens dead and dozens more injured. The riots were initially broke out in a protest against China decision to move a drilling rig into areas claimed to be within Vietnam’s Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf. [Sources: AFP, Asia News Network et.al]

Comment:

China has been in a spotlight over the last few weeks with issues related to its actions in the disputed areas of South China Sea region. China’s actions have raised concerns an irk many in the region and not just confined to its southern neighbour Vietnam. Its actions lately are getting bolder and provocative in nature. In a related incident this week, China has also sparked another row with Manila over its activities in the disputed area around the Johnson South Reef. Manila had accused China of performing land reclamation activity and building an airstrip that will increase threat to other neighbouring countries which also have laid claims to the area.

Disputes over the region is not something new and China’s aspiration to become the regional sole superpower is clearly seen by its actions in the past, present and foreseeable future. However, its actions were more of a bully over weaker neighbour. China’s attitude towards stronger rivals in the region is somewhat milder in comparison. This can be seen once one compares China’s actions when dealing with its southern neighbours (Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei) over China’s row with Japan over Senkaku Islands.

What’s interesting is that an increased number of issues have been raised against China in the recent weeks almost shortly after Obama’s visit to a number of countries in the region. It is as if pressure has been purposely mounted against China which extends the grasp of American’s Pivot to Asia. As neighbouring rival countries to China may seek ties with the number one superpower to support their claims on the disputed areas, one must not forget that the American help will not come cheap. Any interest by Uncle Sam to help is of its own interest, and not due to its benevolent Samaritan nature in protecting the weak against the bullies.

Written for the Central Media Office of Hizb ut Tahrir by

Yusuf Idris