Topic: 2024-The Situatin in the South China Sea
Country: Malta
Delegate Name: Lucas Chesebrough
Committee: United Nations Security Council
Topic Area: The Situation in the South China Sea
Country: Malta
School Name: Fishers High School
Delegate Name: Lucas Chesebrough
Malta recognizes the South China Sea as a region of significant geopolitical and economic importance, with disputes over territorial claims posing a substantial threat to global trade and regional stability. The ongoing tensions, fueled by overlapping claims among multiple nations and China’s assertion of its “Nine Dash Line,” disrupt peace and security in the region. Malta, as a member of the international community, firmly supports adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The Government of Malta has consistently advocated for the peaceful resolution of disputes through diplomacy and international legal mechanisms. While Malta has no direct stake in the territorial claims, it understands the broader implications of unresolved disputes for small, trade-reliant island nations. The 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which invalidated China’s Nine Dash Line claims, highlights the importance of respecting international law and arbitration decisions to maintain the rule-based order. Malta upholds this ruling and emphasizes the necessity of cooperative solutions over unilateral actions.
As a country with an economy heavily dependent on maritime trade, Malta emphasizes the importance of safeguarding international waterways. The South China Sea is a critical artery for global trade, handling over $3 trillion worth of goods annually. Any disruption to this route would adversely affect not only Southeast Asia but also the global economy. Therefore, Malta urges all involved parties to exercise restraint and prioritize navigation safety to ensure that civilian vessels and aircraft can operate without threat.
To address this issue, Malta has a few suggestions for possible solutions. First off Malta supports the establishment of a multilateral forum involving all claimants and key stakeholders to foster open communication, prevent misunderstandings, and build trust.
Malta also recognizes ASEAN’s role in regional stability, Malta encourages its member states to lead negotiations for an enforceable Code of Conduct in the South China Sea that aligns with UNCLOS. Malta advocates for international cooperation in creating a framework for joint patrols and crisis management mechanisms to reduce the risk of accidental escalations. Joint efforts to preserve the marine environment, as the South China Sea is vital for biodiversity and fisheries, which millions rely upon for sustenance and economic livelihood. Malta believes that collective action and adherence to international norms are crucial to de-escalating tensions in the South China Sea. It urges the Security Council to act as a mediator and ensure that disputes are resolved in a manner that respects sovereignty, promotes cooperation, and ensures the security of international maritime trade.
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “Text of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.” United Nations, 1982.
Permanent Court of Arbitration. The South China Sea Arbitration Award. The Hague, July 12, 2016.
ASEAN. “Framework for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.” ASEAN Official Documents, 2020.
