Abstract The development of sea power theory has experienced a transformation from the traditional theory to the contemporary theory. The 21st century maritime silk road initiative is an attempt to achieve the development of sea power with Chinese characteristics. In line with the maritime environment and international situation China is faced with, China has no choice but to cooperate with other states, as the choice is also in line with the essence of sea power and the 21st century maritime silk road initiative. This paper argues that the cooperation of hard and soft sea power is the sure method for China to execute its sea power within the legal cooperative frame that is based on the current international treaties and customary laws.
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