What's Next In South China Sea? 4 Scenarios Simulated -- Camille Diola, PhilStar

MANILA, Philippines — More than 70 analysts from various countries held debates in a bid to simulate the future of the disputed South China Sea.

In a statement earlier this week, consultancy firm Wikistrat examined "key factors" driving instability in the waters claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Taiwan to come up with "master narratives" or possible scenarios that may affect the region's future.

The factors identified are the increase and interaction of nationalistic sentiment among rival claimants, the course of international diplomacy and ability of negotiators, the desire to control offshore resources and the ongoing buildup of military assets seen in growing defense budgets.

"Examining these four factors, analysts predicted four scenarios for stability and instability in the contested waters," the agency said.

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Update: Why China's South China Sea Diplomacy Will Frustrate Claimants -- Robert Farley, The Diplomat

My Comment: My money is on China asserting control. The only country that will probably dispute these Chinese territorial claims is Vietnam .... but their military (especially their navy) is not capable of standing up to the Chinese. Maybe in some future date the Vietnamese will be in a position to confront these Chinese claims .... but not for now.