Amid the recent incident involving a Chinese coast guard ship using a water cannon on a Philippines supply boat, India expressed its stance on Friday, advocating for the peaceful resolution of issues in the South China Sea. The country called upon both China and the Philippines to uphold international laws.
Addressing the situation, Arindam Bagchi, the Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted India's position on the South China Sea matters. He stressed the necessity of resolving disputes peacefully within a rules-based framework and urged parties to prevent such incidents. Bagchi further underlined the significance of adhering to international law.
The incident, which occurred at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, involved the "excessive and offensive" use of a water cannon by a Chinese ship to block a Filipino supply boat.
Emphasizing India's enduring standpoint on South China Sea disputes, Bagchi reiterated the country's call for the peaceful settlement of conflicts and adherence to international laws.
On August 5, the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard ships of employing water cannons and engaging in hazardous maneuvers towards its vessels in the South China Sea. This provoked widespread condemnation, with various nations, including Australia, Japan, Germany, and the United States, denouncing China's actions as destabilizing.
In response, China accused the Philippines Coast Guard of trespassing in its waters and claimed that the Filipino vessels were carrying illegal construction materials. The 2016 international court decision, which ruled against China's vast territorial claim in the South China Sea, continues to be disregarded by China.
Despite the ruling's recognition by other countries, China maintains its position that the decision is "null and void." The situation underscores the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea region, highlighting the importance of adhering to international law and pursuing diplomatic solutions to prevent escalation.