India’s External Affairs Minister, articulated, in a joint statement India’s full support for the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty in the South China Sea.
| Relevance For Prelims: South China Sea Dispute, Rising China Philippines Tension In The South China Sea, and United nations Convention on the Law of Sea.
Relevance For Mains: South China Sea dispute, Look East Policy, Act east Policy |
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Declaration of Support: In March 2024, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, reaffirmed India’s unwavering support for the Philippines in safeguarding its national sovereignty during his diplomatic visit to Manila.
South China Sea Dispute: This statement by India comes amidst the prolonged dispute between Manila and Beijing over territorial claims in the South China Sea, which witnessed escalated tensions in 2023.
Departure from Neutrality: India’s vocal support for the Philippines represents a departure from its previous stance of cautious neutrality concerning the South China Sea issue.
Policy Evolution: India’s engagement with Southeast Asia initially commenced with the Look East Policy, emphasizing economic integration and energy security.
Energy Exploration Projects: India’s participation in oil and gas exploration ventures within Vietnam’s exclusive economic zones underscores its commitment to uphold the freedom of exploration within the framework of international law.
India’s nuanced approach in the South China Sea reflects its commitment to safeguarding its interests while contributing to regional stability. Advocacy for UNCLOS and adherence to international law indirectly challenges China’s expansive territorial claims.
| Prelims PYQ (2022):
With reference to the United National Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: 1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention. 2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea. 3. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d) |
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| UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers | UPSC Test Series 2024 |
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April 19, 2024
