Lagatar24 Desk
Vientiane (Laos): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored the crucial need for a substantive and effective code of conduct to secure the Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC) in the South China Sea, emphasizing their importance for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Speaking at the 14th East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers Meeting in Vientiane, Laos, Jaishankar addressed growing concerns over China’s maritime activities.
Jaishankar highlighted that the SLOCs, essential for trade, logistics, and naval forces, are vital for the region’s prosperity and development. He asserted, “The Code of Conduct should be substantive and effective, consistent with international law, and should not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of nations not party to discussions.”
His remarks gained added significance given the presence of Chinese counterpart Wang Yi at the summit. The South China Sea, a resource-rich and strategically significant area, is often seen as a potential global conflict flashpoint. While China claims most of the South China Sea, counterclaims come from The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
Southeast Asian nations are striving to finalize a code of conduct with China to avoid confrontations in the maritime area, which serves as a critical shipping route linking Northeast Asia with Southeast Asia and West Asia.
In his address, Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to ASEAN unity and centrality through its Act East Policy. He expressed India’s readiness to contribute to the East Asia Summit process, which will mark its 20th anniversary next year.
Addressing other global concerns, Jaishankar called for de-escalation and restraint in Gaza, emphasizing India’s ongoing humanitarian support to the Palestinian people. He also voiced concern over attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, noting India’s contributions to ensuring maritime security.
On the conflict in Ukraine, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s stance on the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged with Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy. India stands ready to contribute in any manner possible,” he shared in a post on X.
Jaishankar also highlighted India’s support for the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and its convergence with the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). He encouraged more EAS members to join the IPOI and noted India’s contributions to the EAS Plan of Action. He referenced Nalanda University as a testament to India’s commitment to the EAS.
Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar stressed the significance of the EAS in fostering unity amid global differences and diverse interests. “India will always stand firm in its commitment to the EAS process,” he affirmed.
