New Delhi: India and Singapore have jointly called for the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, reaffirming their commitment to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The call comes amid growing regional tensions and disputes over territorial claims in the resource-rich and strategically vital waters.During a recent bilateral meeting, leaders from both nations emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of disputes and respect for international norms. Freedom of navigation and overflight are essential to maintain stability in the region, the joint statement read, urging all nations to respect the established maritime laws outlined in UNCLOS.Freedom of navigationThe South China Sea has long been a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions, with several nations contesting territorial claims over its waters. India and Singapores latest statement reinforces their shared commitment to international maritime laws and peaceful dispute resolution. Freedom of navigation and overflight are critical to regional stability and the global economy, the statement reads, highlighting their strategic significance.My visit to Singapore has been a very fruitful one. It will certainly add vigour to bilateral ties and benefit the people of our nations. I thank the government and people of Singapore for their warmth. pic.twitter.com/hx0DVl71WX— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 5, 2024India and Singapore reiterated that all actions in the region should be consistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS, to ensure free movement of ships and aircraft. The leaders called for restraint and peaceful dialogue among all parties involved in the disputes.Need for cooperative effortsThe statement comes amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, where territorial disagreements between nations have increasingly threatened peace and security. India and Singapores united stance underscores the need for cooperative efforts to ensure stability and the safeguarding of international maritime principles.As tensions escalate in the South China Sea, both nations called on all stakeholders to work toward peaceful solutions while respecting international maritime laws. The joint statement also underscored the critical role of UNCLOS in ensuring that disputes are resolved legally, without undermining regional stability.
