Spratlys solution key to regional stability

For years Singapore, under former leader Lee Kuan Yew, balked at the idea of having formal ties with China. Ties were not established until 1990 but Chinese Premier Li Peng, making his first official visit to Singapore, seems anxious to make up for lost time.

The main theme of his arrival statement was the need for a "long-term, stable partnership" between the two countries as they enter the 21st century. This was clearly more than just a pious affirmation. These countries obviously can achieve much through a strategy of mutual cooperation.

But this strategy can only be effective if China is not seen as a threat to the stability of the region. Beijing must also make it clear that it is not exclusively interested in wooing the Chinese in the region.

And the key to stability in the region is a speedy, peaceful resolution of the Spratlys dispute.

No Southeast Asian countries pose a threat to China. And there is no reason for Beijing to resort to strong-arm tactics over the Spratlys. While it will take time to resolve the conflicting claims over these islands, China needs to exercise restraint and refrain from provocative acts.

The conflict over the Spratlys revolves around economic issues. One reason for the overlapping claims is the belief that the islands are potentially rich in mineral resources.

Mr. Li was applauded in Malaysia when he reiterated that the Spratlys problem could be passed on to future generations if it was not settled now. It could be solved far more speedily if the claimant countries agreed to share the resources.

Once this issue is resolved a genuine working partnership between China and the rest of Southeast Asia will not be a problem.

-- The Hong Kong Standard