China toughening regulation of online maps to clarify its territorial claimsSeptember 2, 2016 - 11:01 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - China is tightening its regulation of online maps to clarify its territorial claims, state media reported Friday, September 2, a move that comes amid sharpening disputes with its neighbors over islands in the East and South China Sea, the Associated Press said. The government has noticed that some maps posted online were inaccurate and it would increase checks and order corrections to protect "national sovereignty and interests," the Xinhua News Agency said. It cited incorrect drawing of national boundary lines, saying some "territorial islands were mistakenly left out" — an apparent reference to waters and islands China claims in the South and East China Seas. Such practices "have harmed China's territorial sovereignty, national security and interests and may impair the international community's understanding of the position and claims of the Chinese government." The order follows an international arbitration panel's ruling in July invalidating China's South China Sea maritime claims and criticizing the harm its activities are causing to the marine environment. Beijing rejected the ruling and said it would continue work on man-made islands it has built by piling sand atop coral reefs. It wasn't clear how the government would force websites to comply or whether it would seek to apply the regulations to sites based outside the country. China already blocks a wide range of overseas websites, including those belonging to news outlets, social media, government and non-governmental organizations. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | U.S. welcomes Armenia, Azerbaijan’s border delimitation announcement Blinken said it is an important step towards concluding a durable and dignified peace agreement. Residents Of border villages protest as Armenia, Azerbaijan agree on delimitation Residents of several Armenian communities in the northeastern Tavush province began protests late on Friday. Up to 10% cashback from GetTransfer with IDBank cards IDBank clients who make their booking on GetTransfer will receive an exclusive cashback. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. |