Timeline

February 2013

The Sansha's city plan is submitted to the State Council for approval.

March

Hainan provincial government says South China Sea Satellite TV and the Sansha Daily newspaper will be established within the year to report on construction, economic development and environmental protection.

April 28

About 100 Chinese tourists embark on a four-day voyage to Xisha Islands on the Coconut Princess, the only cruise ship allowed to sail to Sansha.

July 17

The first batch of 10 ID cards and 68 residential permits are issued to Sansha residents.

July 19

Phase 1 of a port for civil use on Yongxing Island is completed. It has nine berths and cost about 340 million yuan ($56 million).

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