41.   The islands are valued because they are believed to sit atop oil and other mineral deposits and because they straddle important sea lanes.

42.   The islands straddle important sea lanes and are believed to be rich in oil and mineral resources.

43.   The islands straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea and are the surrounding seas are believed to be rich in minerals and fish stocks.

44.   The islands, believed to be rich in minerals and oil, straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea.

45.   The islands, which straddle busy sea lanes, are believed to be rich in oil and minerals.

46.   The islets straddle important sea lanes and fishing grounds, and may also sit on oil reserves.

47.   The Spratlys straddle key sea lanes and are thought to lie atop rich mineral, oil and gas deposits.

48.   The Spratlys straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea and are believed to be rich in minerals.

49.   The Spratlys straddle vital sea lanes.

50.   The Spratlys, believed to be rich in minerals and oil, straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea.