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India has reiterated its position on the South China Sea, advocating for the freedom of navigation, overflight, and unrestricted commerce in the strategically significant region. The statement, made on 14 July 2023, aligns with India's support for a 2016 ruling from an international arbitral tribunal that dismissed China's extensive territorial claims in the area. This position follows a joint statement from the United States, the United Kingdom, and twelve other nations on 12 July 2023, which emphasised the illegality of China's claims as per the tribunal's verdict.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted India's stance, stating, 'We emphasise the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea, and unimpeded commerce consistent with international law, as reflected in UNCLOS,' referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. He underscored that maritime disputes should be resolved peacefully and in accordance with UNCLOS principles.

The joint statement by the Western and Asian countries reiterated strong opposition to any actions destabilising the region, particularly those involving coercion or military force. It called for the peaceful resolution of territorial disputes based on the principles set forth in the 1982 UN convention on the seas. The countries also condemned the harassment or intimidation of lawful operations by military or paramilitary forces at sea, citing such actions as detrimental to regional peace and security.

The South China Sea has been a point of contention due to China’s sweeping claims of sovereignty, which are contested by several nations including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brunei. Jaiswal emphasised the need for adherence to a rules-based order, supporting the need for all nations to follow international law.

As discussions continue, India’s commitment to promoting navigational freedom and resolving disputes through diplomatic means is poised to shape regional security dynamics.