External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasised the need for a substantive and effective code of conduct to ensure secure sea lines of communication in the South China Sea, which he described as critical for the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. His remarks come amidst rising concerns about China’s maritime actions in the area.
Addressing the 14th East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers Meeting in Vientiane, Laos, Jaishankar highlighted that the EAS process will mark two decades next year and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening it. He underscored India’s ongoing support for ASEAN unity and centrality through the Act East Policy.
Focusing on maritime security, Jaishankar noted, “The Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC) passing through the South China Sea are vital for the peace, stability, prosperity, and development of the Indo-Pacific region.” The SLOC refers to key maritime routes used for trade, logistics, and naval operations.
“The Code of Conduct should be substantive and effective, consistent with international law, and should not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of nations not party to the discussions,” Jaishankar asserted.
ALSO READ: Former US president Barack Obama, wife Michelle endorse Kamala Harris ahead of presidential elections
The comments made by Jaishankar are significant as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also attended the summit. The South China Sea, rich in resources and a major shipping route, is a potential flashpoint for global conflict. China claims most of the area, while The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan have counterclaims.
Southeast Asian countries are negotiating with China to establish a code of conduct to prevent confrontations in the South China Sea.
Jaishankar also called for de-escalation and restraint in Gaza, reiterating India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance for Palestine. He expressed concern over attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and highlighted India’s contributions to maritime security.
Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Jaishankar stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. “PM @narendramodi recently engaged President (Vladimir) Putin and President (Volodymyr) Zelenskyy. India stands ready to contribute in any manner possible,” he posted on X.
Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and its convergence with the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), encouraging more EAS members to join IPOI.
He also mentioned Nalanda University as a significant commitment to the EAS and valued the participation of ASEAN members in the Voice of the Global South Summit hosted by India last year.
“The EAS is crucial in bringing us together at a time when differences are sharp and interests are diverse. India will always stand firm in its commitment to the EAS process,” Jaishankar concluded.
