Pratas Islands

Pratas Islands Latest News

A Chinese reconnaissance drone briefly flew ‍over the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands at the top end of ​the South China Sea recently, in ‌what Taiwan’s defence ministry called a “provocative and irresponsible” ​move.

About Pratas Islands

• The Pratas Islands, also known as the Dongsha Islands, are a small group of three islands located in the northern part of the South China Sea.
• These islands are characterized by a circular atoll structure, with Dongsha Island being the only island above sea level, while the other two are submerged. 
• They are composed primarily of clastic coral and reef flats approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) in diameter, enclosing a lagoon about 10 miles (16 kilometers) in diameter.
• Once discovered during the ancient Han Dynasty, Dongsha Island became an important point along trade and fishing routes through the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from mainland China, and the Bashi Channel between Y’Ami Island of the Philippines and Orchid Island of Taiwan.
• They are strategically important positions along the major sea route connecting the Pacific and Indian ocean.
• It lies approximately 445 km southwest of Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and 320 km southeast of Hong Kong.
• The People’s Republic of China claims them, but Taiwan controls them and has declared them part of the Dongsha Atoll National Park. 
• There are no permanent residents. But Taiwanese marines are stationed there.
• The region is notable for its rich biodiversity, supporting a variety of flora and fauna, including numerous fish species, coral, and migratory birds like the Chinese Egret.
• The ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, along with the impacts of global warming, continue to pose risks to the islands and their biodiversity.

Source: TH

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