China builds rescue centre on artificial Spratly island in South China Sea
- Facility to ensure safety of navigation in the contested waters, Chinese transport authorities say
China has added a maritime rescue centre to its facilities on an artificial island in the South China Sea, pressing on with plans to turn the outpost into the biggest logistics hub in the disputed waters.
The Ministry of Transport said on Tuesday that the centre had been built on Fiery Cross Reef to serve the Spratly Islands, also known as the Nanshas.
The announcement comes six months after China stationed the Nanhaijiu-115 rescue ship at Subi Reef, another artificial island in the Spratlys.
The rescue centre would provide stronger and more comprehensive support to rescue missions and would be part of the ministry’s “South China Sea rescue bureau” , the ministry said.
“It is a measure to implement international treaties and ensure safety of navigation and transport in the South China Sea region,” it said.