China and Brunei Pledge to Collaborate on Oil and Gas in Disputed South China Sea Waters

China and Brunei are taking a step toward working together on oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea in February 2025
Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah review the honor guards during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on February 6, 2025. (Photo by Andres MARTINEZ CASARES / POOL / AFP)

China and Brunei are taking a step toward working together on oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, a development that has drawn attention though some experts suggest it may be more symbolic than substantive.

In a joint statement released Thursday, the two nations pledged to support commercial cooperation in developing maritime oil and gas resources.

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by Edwin Shri Bimo

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