Thursday marks the second anniversary of the establishment of China’s southernmost city,Sansha. Two years ago, the prefecture level city started to work after a historic ceremony was held on Yongxing island.

Sansha was built to strengthen China’s foothold in the South China Sea. As CCTV reporter Han Bin reports, the city is striving to protect China’s sovereign rights, as well as the ecosystems and natural resources.

China celebrates second anniversary of Sansha city

Thursday marks the second anniversary of the establishment of China's southernmost city--Sansha. Two years ago, the prefecture level city started to work after a historic ceremony was held on Yongxing island. That's where the city government is seated. Sansha was built to strengthen China's foothold in the South China Sea. As CCTV reporter Han Bin reports, the city is striving to protect China's sovereign rights, as well as the eco-systems and natural resources.

China’s newest city Sansha threw a party to mark its second birthday. Mayor Xiao Jie, along with representatives from the government and military, were there. It’s not Xiao Jie’s first inspection there, but this time he has a special mission.

“Planting a tree takes great effort, and a greater cost for it to flourish. We need to set up a support system with personnel, fresh water and supervision, to ensure its continuing growth. I believe Sansha will have a great change in the future. We will make it into an oasis in the sea,” said Xiao Jie, Sansha City Mayor.

The Mayor also promised that through ecological preservation and conservation on various islands, the government will make Sansha a more beautiful place to live. “This is also part of our efforts to strengthen the country’s foothold in the South China Sea, and improve the living standards of islands’ residents,” he added.