India Reasserts South China Sea Stance: Freedom of Navigation Paramount
India on Tuesday reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. This position, the government reiterated, is integral to maintaining legitimate commerce in the region.
New Delhi views the South China Sea as a vital part of the global commons, underscoring its belief in upholding international law.
This stance is firmly grounded in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), a cornerstone of maritime governance.
The reiteration comes amidst ongoing regional tensions and underscores India’s dedication to a rules-based international order in the strategically crucial waterway. This commitment directly impacts India’s trade and energy security, highlighting the significance of a stable and peaceful South China Sea for the nation’s economic growth.