Valencia, Mark J

Abstract
On March 14, 1988, China and Vietnam exchanged fire near Sinh Ton Island, one of the islands that make up the Spratly Islands. Located in the South China Sea, the Spratly Islands have long existed as territories in the midst of international conflict. China, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Taiwan all lay claim and occupy these islands because of the potential oil resources that lie in its shoals, plateaus, and basins. In addition to petroleum, the Spratly Islands can provide space of strategic security bases. This article examines international energy and security interests in the Spratly Islands.
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