China is creating a new “great wall” — of sand.
Adm. Harry Harris Jr., commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, said Tuesday that the communist nation is creating a “great wall of sand” in the South China Sea to literally cement its claims on disputed islands.
“China is building artificial land by pumping sand on to live coral reefs — some of them submerged — and paving over them with concrete. China has now created over 4 square kilometers (1.5 square miles) of artificial landmass,” the admiral said, The Associated Press reported.
The artificial land masses are built using dredges and bulldozers “over the course of months,” Adm. Harris added.
The Philippines and other countries dispute China’s claims on the islands. Officials fear that the diplomatic fights being waged could ultimately turn into armed conflict.
“How China proceeds will be a key indicator of whether the region is heading toward confrontation or cooperation,” the admiral said, AP reported.
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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