The Strategic Significance of the South China Sea: American, Asian, and International Perspectives 6

Remarks from Dr. Ashley Tellis, “Diplomatic Implications of the South China Sea on the Indo-Pacific Region” The islands and waterways that cover the South China Sea have long been at the center of territorial disputes among regional rivals. Today, however, the region is one of the most fiercely disputed waterways and hottest flashpoints in the world. Due in large part to the almost $3.5 trillion of maritime trade that flows through this international waterway, it has become an escalating source of confrontation between China and the United States. On February 1st, Hudson Institute hosted a high-level symposium to discuss the new strategic significance of the South China Sea for Asian and American national interests. In particular, our speakers will examine the origins and geopolitical, economic, and military implications of China’s aggressive strategy in the South China Sea, and consider potential counter strategies that other nations, including the United States, might pursue to preserve and protect peace and stability throughout the region.