On April 14, Dr. Nong Hong spoke at the SAIS Science Diplomacy Summit in a session on transboundary waters and the South China Sea. Her remarks focused on the role of science diplomacy in promoting marine environmental protection in the South China Sea. She argued that although science diplomacy cannot resolve the underlying sovereignty and maritime disputes, it remains a practical and necessary channel for cooperation. Drawing on examples from the international, regional, and national levels, she also highlighted the significant differences in how states pursue, frame, and implement science diplomacy in this contested maritime space.