China: A Historical Revelation and a Warning to Vietnam

Revelations that China quietly transferred control of an island in the South China Sea to Vietnam more than half a century ago could signal that Beijing is preparing to take a more aggressive stance on its territorial claims in the sea. Chinese semi-state-owned newspaper Huanqiu published an editorial March 27 titled "Expelling Vietnamese illegal shipping boats is justified" in defense of Vietnamese claims that a Chinese ship fired at Vietnamese fishing vessels near the disputed Paracel Islands. In a rare move, the article revealed a piece of history unknown to most of the public involving the transfer of Bach Long Vi Island (Bailongwei in Chinese) to Vietnam in early 1957. The article reasoned that, instead of returning the gesture of peace and friendship, Vietnam had increasingly challenged China's territorial claims in the South China Sea. The editorial was then reprinted in a number of major media outlets with the title "China transferred Bailongwei Island to Vietnam whereas Vietnam is stepping forward."

Not surprisingly, the articles sparked public outrage in China. Chinese citizens have condemned the government for conceding territory and have questioned the leadership's ability to safeguard the country's territory and national interest. The move was risky but it may fit Beijing's goal: To manufacture public outrage in order to add weight to Chinese moves in the South China Sea.