MANILA, Philippines —- India has publicly declared its support for the Philippines in its efforts to maintain sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, amidst ongoing territorial disputes in the region. This backing was articulated during a meeting between the foreign ministers of India and the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law for peace and stability in the area.
The focus of the discussions was on the significance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in resolving maritime disputes. India’s endorsement of the Philippines comes at a critical time when tensions in the West Philippine Sea, involving several nations, have escalated due to overlapping territorial claims.
Both countries highlighted their mutual interest in ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight in the West Philippine Sea. They also stressed the necessity for all involved parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could exacerbate tensions.
The South China Sea is a strategic maritime corridor, essential for international trade, which has been the center of prolonged disputes involving the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. These tensions have drawn international attention, with countries outside the region expressing concern over the potential for conflict and its implications for global trade and security.
India’s support for the Philippines aligns with its broader foreign policy objectives in the Indo-Pacific region, aimed at promoting stability and adherence to international laws. This move also reflects India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its diplomatic and strategic ties in Southeast Asia, amid its own border tensions with China.
The backing of the Philippines by India in the West Philippine Sea dispute underscores the growing international consensus on the need for a peaceful resolution to territorial conflicts based on the rule of law. It also highlights the increasing cooperation among nations in ensuring the security and freedom of the world’s crucial maritime routes.
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