The South China Sea  is a small part of the Pacific ocean, the largest water body on earth. This sea is surrounded by six states: China,Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei.

All the six surrounding countries often dispute over what part of the sea and its islands should belong to whom. The area around these islands is very rich in sea life and therefore very profitable for fishing.They are also believed to have abundant oil and gas reserves under the seabed which is another big bone of contention. South china sea is also one of the busiest and very important shipping routes in the world.

Lately China, the biggest amongst all the six countries that surround South China Sea, has become very aggressive in claiming its control over the South China Sea. Recently India, Phillipines were warned to keep away from the sea. US has asked China to follow a code of conduct to maintain peace and ease tension in the resource-rich South China Sea.