Spratly Islands

Spratly Islands

If the reported agreement between China and the Philippines for the "common exploration and development" of the disputed Spratly Islands solidifies, it could have positive implications for China's relations with the rest of Asia.

In fact, the agreement's significance lies more in the example it might set -- especially for Vietnam, China's main rival over the mineral-rich string of atolls and islands commanding vital shipping lines -- than in its immediate physical application.

This is not to minimize the threat that may have been averted. But the Philippines was never a major player.

Though they agreed last October to shun the use of force in border disputes on land and at sea -- in keeping with Beijing's current policy of freezing contentious issues while improving bilateral ties -- China and Vietnam have been pressing competing claims recently in a manner that recalls the 1988 clash.

Neither country has paid much heed to exhortations to show restraint and seek a peaceful settlement, as recommended by the 1992 Manila Declaration, or to ASEAN's proposals for joint development of the disputed islands.

The ball is now in ASEAN's court. This is an opportunity to remove lingering reservations by engaging China more firmly in the Asia-Pacific region's economic and strategic planning. Deft diplomacy nearer to home may yet produce a time-bound formula for the exploration and development of the islands, at the same time providing for a reduction in forces leading to eventual demilitarization.

While Asia does not need a war over the Spratlys, the world may one day need the oil and gas known to lie beneath them.

-- The Straits Times, Singapore