China slams Chile-Belgium bid to host High Seas Treaty body, pushes rival Xiamen proposal

China has criticized Chile and Belgium's joint bid to host the secretariat of the High Seas Treaty, accusing them of politicizing the process and creating divisions. This move comes after the three countries previously submitted separate proposals for the administrative headquarters of the treaty, which aims to protect biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. China is now promoting its coastal city of Xiamen as an alternative, highlighting its infrastructure and support for global environmental governance. This rivalry underscores the geopolitical stakes involved in international environmental agreements and the competition for influence in global maritime governance.