China is rapidly building up the Nansha Islands in the South China Sea. New pictures show a new runway which China said is on its territory, but some of China’s neighbors disagree. CCTV America’s Roee Ruttenberg filed this report from Washington.

Highlights:

• Recently released satellite images show China is rapidly building an airstrip potentially for military use on the Nansha Islands, also known as the Spratly Islands, in the South China Sea.
• The Chinese may be planning another airstrip. Diplomats from the U.S., Japan and South Korea are meeting in Washington amid growing regional tension regarding the runway work.
• Beijing said the islands fall under its sovereignty, but regional players disagree. Some countries and territories fear recent moves are a precursor to a bigger Chinese military presence, one that may try to block trade in China’s favor.
• In Manila, protesters gathered outside of the Chinese Embassy. The Philippines, and other nearby countries, are urging China to settle the dispute through a tribunal. Beijing so far has said no.