China unveils construction plan for reclamation projects in South China Sea

BEIJING, June 23 (Xinhuanet) — China has unveiled its development plan for civil-use construction projects on its islands in the South China Sea.

According to a statement released by the National Development and Reform Commission- China’s top economic and development planner- a batch of facilities for telecommunication, navigation, environmental monitoring, disaster relief, transportation and production, and logistical support will be constructed.

Key projects include large-scale lighthouses on international shipping routes, maritime security and communication facilities, as well as support for emergency rescue and salvage. Facilities will also be built to provide supply, shelter, maintenance and repair services to ships passing by.

Meteorological centers to monitor tsunamis, earthquakes and the maritime environment, as well as maritime research centers, will also be constructed. A large scale medical and emergency center will also be built to satisfy future medical needs, alongside waste water and garbage processing facilities. Experts says these projects will further promote international cooperation in the South China Sea. 

“There are two main purposes for China’s reclamation activities on its islands in the South China Sea,” said Ruan Zongze, Executive VP for China Institute of Int’l Studies, “One is to improve the living and working environment for the personnel based on the islands. The other purpose is so that China can shoulder more international responsibilities and obligations. After the construction is completed, the facilities on the islands can be opened to countries surrounding the South China Sea, as well as international organizations and the international community.”

(Source: CNTV.cn)