CPC Catch Phrases: A Maritime Power

The Report to the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), made by then Party General Secretary Hu Jintao on November 8, 2012, laid out a blueprint for China's future. A comprehensive insight into the key terms in this report will help readers better understand the country's national strategies and its future path. ChinAfrica introduces some of these terms.

A Maritime Power

The term "maritime power" appears in the section on "making great efforts to promote ecological progress" in the report delivered at the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC). It lays down a series of goals, including enhancing China's ability to "exploit marine resources, develop the marine economy, protect the marine ecological environment, resolutely safeguard China's maritime rights and interests, and build China into a maritime power."

This term refers to a country with a strong capacity to explore oceans, exploit and manage marine resources and territory. China is set to become such a country, and is focused on developing its marine-based economy, advanced scientific and technological innovation, sound marine ecology and strong coastal defenses. Several national-level strategies are being planned in support of these efforts.

China's territory includes about 3 million square km of ocean, and more than 6,500 islands, each with an area of over 500 square meters. China's seabed is rich in oil, gas and other mineral and biological resources fundamental to China's effort to build itself into a maritime power.

To this end, developing a strong marine-based economy is key. Marine-related industries have become the driving force behind the development of China's economy. According to estimates, the sector will account for over 10 percent of China's GDP by 2015.

Fostering a sound marine environment is also fundamental to becoming a maritime power. While developing its marine-related economy, China is making greater efforts to protect marine ecosystems. By 2020, the number of marine nature reserves in China will reach 200, including at least 40 national-level reserves. Protecting and improving the marine environment is a goal supported by the Chinese people.

At present, China's Maritime Surveillance Fleet patrols the country's territorial waters on a regular basis, protecting the nation's sovereignty. The fishery administration and other marine departments also help safeguard the country's maritime rights and interests.