India Reaffirms Support For Rules-Based Maritime Order In South China Sea
India Reaffirms Support For Rules-Based Maritime Order In South China Sea Published By, Last Updated: July 15, 2026, 07:32 IST The Ministry of External Affairs
India Reaffirms Support For Rules-Based Maritime Order In South China Sea Published By, Last Updated: July 15, 2026, 07:32 IST The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said maritime disputes should be resolved peacefully and in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Rapid Read India has consistently called for adherence to international law and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. India reiterated its position on the South China Sea, stressing the importance of freedom of navigation, overflight and unimpeded trade in accordance with international law, amid renewed focus on China’s maritime claims in the disputed waters. Responding to queries on a recent joint statement issued by the United States, Japan, the Philippines and 11 other countries, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said maritime disputes should be resolved peacefully and in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “India emphasises the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea, and unimpeded commerce consistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS," the MEA said.
The ministry added that India supports the peaceful settlement of disputes. “We reaffirm that maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with UNCLOS," it said. UNCLOS, often described as the “constitution of the oceans", is an international treaty that sets out the rules governing the use of the world’s seas and oceans. It defines maritime boundaries, navigational rights, exclusive economic zones and the mechanisms for resolving disputes between countries. Most countries, including India, are signatories to the convention and regard it as the key legal framework for maritime issues. India’s statement came after a group of 14 countries marked the 10th anniversary of a landmark international tribunal ruling in favour of the Philippines. The 2016 ruling had rejected China’s sweeping claims over large parts of the South China Sea, holding that they had no legal basis under international law. In their joint statement, the countries reaffirmed that the arbitral tribunal’s award was “final, legally binding and definitive" between China and the Philippines.
Beijing, however, has never accepted the ruling and continues to assert its claims in the region. The South China Sea remains one of the world’s most contested waterways, with overlapping territorial claims involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. The sea is also a critical trade route carrying a significant share of global commerce. India has consistently called for adherence to international law and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, while maintaining that disputes should be resolved through peaceful dialogue and established legal mechanisms. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Key Questions Answered What are the implications of China rejecting the tribunal ruling? China's rejection of the 2016 tribunal ruling has led to diplomatic protests and accusations of undermining international law. China maintains its sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea are historically grounded and lawful, dismissing the tribunal's award as non-binding. How does India's stance affect its relations with China?
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