South China Sea

The South China Sea is a marginal sea located in Southeast Asia, bounded by several countries, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. It covers an area of approximately 3.5 million square kilometers and is significant for its strategic maritime routes, rich fishing grounds, and potential underwater resources, such as oil and natural gas. The sea is known for its complex and often contentious geopolitical landscape, with multiple nations asserting territorial claims over various islands, reefs, and waters. These disputes are primarily driven by national interests, historical claims, and economic considerations, leading to tensions in the region. The South China Sea is also an important area for international shipping, with a substantial portion of global trade passing through its waters.