In the wake of China deploying surface-to-air missiles in the South China Sea, India today said the resource-rich region is "pathways" to prosperity and the dispute must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said maritime security was an important area of concern and that security of sea routes in the Asia-Pacific is essential for India's economy as a majority of its global trade flows across the straits of Malacca and beyond.
External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said India has been consistently maintaining that all states should avoid unilateral actions in South China Sea that can lead to tensions in the region.
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Indian companies are involved in oil and gas exploration projects in the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons. China has been opposing India's involvement in the projects.
Swaraj, speaking at Delhi Dialogue VII, an annual forum to brainstorm on all aspects of the ASEAN-India relationship, said, "We are all aware of the importance of ensuring maritime security, which has emerged as an important area of concern in recent times. The oceans and seas, including the South China Sea, are pathways to our prosperity and security."
She said development of a Blue Economy and optimum utilisation of marine resources can only take place within the ambit of internationally recognised rules and norms.
"The need for resolving disputes peacefully, without threat or actual use of force, cannot, therefore, be underestimated.
"In this regard I would also like to stress that we support the evolution of an inclusive, balanced, transparent and open regional architecture for security and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific," she said.
The MEA Spokesperson said it was important to ensure full and effective implementation of the 2002 declaration on conduct of parties in the South China Sea. He said early conclusion of negotiations to establish a code of conduct by consensus will also contribute to peace and stability in the region.
The External Affairs Minister also referred to threat of terrorism and sectarianism and called for concerted efforts to deal with them.
"In the last one year a lot has changed in the global environment. The most significant is the escalation of terrorism, extremism and sectarianism. The rise of ISIS in particular and the displacement of millions of people from their homes has caused enormous tension and threatens the social fabric of many countries," she said.
