China has announced the discovery of the Huizhou 19-6 oilfield in the South China Sea, boasting over 100 million tons of oil reserves. The discovery occurs amid rising military tensions, with the U.S. affirming its defense commitments to the Philippines. Joint naval drills by the U.S., Japan, and the Philippines further emphasize regional alliances in response to Chinese assertions in the area.

The China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) has reported the discovery of a significant oilfield in the South China Sea, known as the Huizhou 19-6 oilfield, which boasts proven reserves exceeding 100 million tons. This oilfield is located approximately 170 kilometers from Shenzhen in Guangdong Province and is situated at an average water depth of 100 meters. Testing has indicated that it produces 413 barrels of crude oil and 68,000 cubic meters of natural gas per day.

Xinhua has characterized this discovery as “China’s first large-scale integrated clastic oilfield discovered in deep to ultra-deep layers.” Despite the challenges posed by high temperatures and complex geological conditions in deep-water offshore exploration, this notable find is significant for China’s energy sector. A geologist from CNOOC mentioned that 60% of the recent global oil and gas reserves originate from deep layers, suggesting a substantial potential for further exploration.

The South China Sea remains largely unexplored owing to ongoing territorial disputes, though many discovered reserves lie in areas free from sovereignty conflicts, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. China claims nearly the entirety of the South China Sea, which is crucial for global trade valued at approximately $3 trillion, creating overlapping claims with the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Brunei.

Concurrent with this oil discovery, the Chinese military engaged in patrols in the South China Sea, which coincided with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s visit to Manila, where he reiterated America’s commitment to defend the Philippines. The Southern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army criticized the Philippines’ collaboration with foreign nations on joint patrols, claiming it destabilizes the region.

During Hegseth’s Asia tour, he confirmed the United States’ “ironclad” defense treaty with the Philippines, asserting an intention to bolster military deterrence against perceived Chinese aggression. Hegseth underscored the necessity for deterrence, particularly in the context of regional tensions from China.

On the same day, U.S., Japan, and Philippine maritime forces conducted naval training exercises near the contested Scarborough Shoal, aimed at enhancing preparedness for potential crises. Monitoring these exercises, a Chinese frigate reportedly attempted to approach, prompting a Philippine frigate to issue a warning that prompted the Chinese vessel to maintain distance. Notably, for the first time, select Manila-based media were allowed to observe these joint drills at sea, reinforcing collaboration among the allies.

The recent discovery of a vast oilfield in the South China Sea by CNOOC marks a significant advancement for China’s energy industry. Concurrently, tensions remain high in the region, particularly regarding territorial claims and military presence, with the United States reaffirming its commitment to support the Philippines. The situation illustrates the intricate balance between exploration, military maneuvering, and diplomatic relationships in the South China Sea.

Original Source: www.benarnews.org

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