China is waging a subtle war against an island neighbour, deploying a rather unusual tactic as it looks to expand its regional empire.
Its latest weapon? Sand…
Satellite images analysed by Reuters show the Asian superpower committing a relentless campaign of sand dredging, frequently encroaching on waters controlled by Taiwan.
The Chinese goal, according to Taiwanese officials, is to pressure Taiwan by tying down the island democracy’s naval defences, and undermining the livelihoods of Matsu residents who occupy a string of islands that sit between China and Taiwan, but are controlled by the latter.
From Taiwan to the Philippines, Chinese Illegal Dredging Ships Wreak Environmental Havoc
Dredging in the South China Sea has sparked more international discussion, particularly for its role in constructing artificial islands for military use. The Philippines is wary of illegal Chinese dredgers involved in “black sand mining” on its northern coast, as well as possible land reclamation plans for Scarborough Shoal; meanwhile, the United States has also hinted at sanctions on Chinese companies involved in land reclamation and dredging in the South China Sea. Along with military-related projects, Chinese dredging involves actors from many sectors, ranging from state-owned companies involved in government infrastructure projects to private development.
The audacity of this man Xi, to think single mindedly and ruthlessly about the narrow welfare of China whatever the damage to others, instead of reflexively thinking of how it’s going to look on CNN.