First Photos of Aircraft Flying From China’s Man-Made Island Outpost
China’s state backed Xinhua News has posted pictures of aircraft operating from the country’s reclaimed island outpost at Fiery Cross Reef in the South China Sea. The move, albeit seemingly an inevitable one, has sent shock-waves around the region
For full background, make sure to read this recent feature on the first landing on Fiery Cross Island and China’s strategy concerning its man-made islands by clicking here.
More: These Are The First Photos Of Aircraft Flying From China’s Man-Made Island Outpost
A relevant statement from China on the matter
First, China adheres to the path of peaceful development and pursues a national defense policy that is defensive in nature. Maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea serves China’s development and security interests. China is committed to resolving disputes through direct negotiations with the countries concerned and to safeguarding peace and stability in the South China Sea jointly with the Asean countries.
Second, we note that some countries have kept silent while other countries have illegally occupied China’s Nansha islands and reefs and even constructed major structures on the islands, but then made irresponsible remarks as China conducted normal activities in its own territory. This behavior reflects a total double standard, is unfair and not constructive. I hope the relevant parties will earnestly abide by their own promise not to take sides on the South China Sea issue and commit themselves to promote regional peace and stability.
I regard that as one of those “big lies” that nations use to assert power where it does not belong.