古旧地图在海洋争端解决中的作用:对相关国际司法判例的另类观察与反思OACHSSCD

China boasts a long history,with an immense collection of historical records and materials,including ancient maritime maps.Through the observation and analysis of several international judicial cases concerning territorial sovereignty over islands and reefs,as well as maritime rights and interests,this paper attempts to summarize the discrepancies in the acceptance and probative value of map evidence by international courts and tribunals in the adjudication of maritime disputes.It also highlights the lack of generalizable patterns and the limitations in understanding ancient maritime maps.The paper critiques the so-called"award"in the South China Sea Arbitration initiated by the Philippines for its disregard and misinterpretation of China's ancient maritime maps and the Eastern history and culture traditions they represent,particularly the history context and sovereignty intentions behind the U-shaped line maps of the South China Sea.Furthermore,the paper proposes a preliminary approach to break away from the rigid focus on maps and lines in discussions on the South China Sea issue,aiming to at least partially restore the historical significance of ancient maritime maps in the establishment,formation,development,maintenance and expansion of China's sovereignty over territories and maritime rights.