On South China Sea, government backs tribunal ruling against Beijing

AI Summary

India supports freedom of navigation and lawful maritime activities in the South China Sea and backs the 2016 tribunal ruling that rejects China's expansive claims as legally unfounded. India emphasizes peaceful dispute resolution under UNCLOS principles alongside other nations.

India supports freedom of navigation and lawful sea uses in the South China Sea. The Ministry of External Affairs responded to a joint statement by several nations. This statement rejected China's expansive South China Sea claim as lacking legal basis. It also reaffirmed a 2016 tribunal ruling favoring the Philippines. India emphasizes peaceful dispute resolution in accordance with UNCLOS principles.