East China Sea is a body of water situated in the western Pacific Ocean, extending from the eastern coast of mainland China to the southwestern coast of Japan's Kyushu Island. It is bounded by the Yellow Sea to the north and the Taiwan Strait to the south. This semi-enclosed sea covers an area of approximately 1,249,000 square kilometers.
The East China Sea holds great geopolitical significance due to its strategic location and rich resources. It serves as a vital maritime route for trade and commerce, connecting major ports of China, Japan, and other countries in East Asia. The sea is known for its abundant fish stocks, making it an important fishing ground for several nations.
The sea's underwater features include the continental shelf, oceanic trench, and several scattered islands, with the Ryukyu Islands being the most prominent. These islands are subject to ongoing territorial disputes between China, Japan, and Taiwan.
The East China Sea experiences diverse weather conditions, including monsoons and typhoons, which can affect maritime activities and pose risks to ships and vessels navigating in its waters.
Due to its geopolitical importance, resources richness, and disputed territories, the East China Sea has been a subject of diplomatic tensions amongst the neighboring countries. Various bilateral and multilateral negotiations have been conducted to address territorial claims, fishing rights, and exploration of oil and gas reserves present in the seabed.
