According to China Ocean Mineral Resources Research & Development Association, China's second phase ocean development plan is complete and will boost the rapid development of the oceans. 

The association held an exhibition in Beijing on April 24 to showcase the achievements of the country's ocean development in past 15 years. As the largest event since the establishment of the association in 1990, the exhibition also raised the curtain on a series of activities organized by the State Oceanic Administration to mark this year's Maritime Day on July 11.

The seabed area of the world accounts for nearly half of the earth's total area, and it's thought 65 percent of it contains rich mineral resources. Due to the increasing pressure on resources found on dry land, the world's seabed has gained an important strategic position. It's a common understanding around the world that these seabed resources require to be tapped.

Competition in international waters has already intensified with resources providing the focus, said an association official.

The association has produced a series of reports on resource investigation, environment assessment and scientific research. These works are designed to safeguard China's rights and interests in international seabed areas, greatly improve its ability to participate in deepwater issues and further expand its influence.

(China.org.cn by Tang Fuchun April 29, 2006)