DistantNews
Support us

India backs 2016 tribunal award that rejected Beijing’s claims in South China Sea

From Hindustan Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • India affirmed its support for a 2016 tribunal ruling that dismissed China's claims in the South China Sea.
  • The Ministry of External Affairs' stance is expected to displease Beijing, which was already angered by a joint statement from 14 countries.
  • This position reinforces India's alignment with international maritime law and challenges China's expansive territorial assertions.

India has officially backed a 2016 international tribunal award that rejected China's extensive claims in the South China Sea. The Ministry of External Affairs' clear statement supports the ruling, which is a significant move in the ongoing territorial disputes in the region.

This affirmation is unlikely to be well-received by Beijing. China has previously expressed strong displeasure with joint statements issued by multiple countries regarding the South China Sea. India's latest position further solidifies its stance against China's maritime assertions, aligning with international legal frameworks.

The decision underscores India's commitment to upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and its support for rules-based international order. It signals a continued assertion of India's foreign policy independence and its willingness to challenge assertive actions by major powers in the Indo-Pacific.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hindustan Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.