With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and over flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China.

Introduction

The South China Sea (SCS), a critical maritime region, is a hotspot for geopolitical tensions due to overlapping territorial claims, particularly involving China. The region is vital for global trade, with nearly 30% of global maritime trade passing through it (UNCTAD). For India, the SCS is significant for its Act East Policy, energy security, and freedom of navigation. However, China's assertive actions in the SCS have led to bilateral frictions with India, impacting their broader strategic relationship.

Value Addition Block — Key Dimensions of India-China Issues in the South China Sea

Bilateral Issues Between India and China in the South China Sea

1. Energy Security and Resource Exploration

• India's ONGC Videsh operations: India has invested in oil and gas exploration in Vietnam's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which overlaps with China's claims in the SCS.
  • Example: ONGC's Block 128 exploration has faced Chinese objections, citing its "Nine-Dash Line" claim.
• China's opposition: Beijing views India's energy activities as interference in its "sovereign waters," escalating tensions.
• Impact: This affects India's energy diversification strategy and raises risks for Indian investments.

2. Freedom of Navigation and Overflight

• India's stance: India supports the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and emphasizes freedom of navigation in international waters.
• China's militarization: China's construction of artificial islands and deployment of military assets in the SCS threatens open sea lanes.
  • Example: The 2019 Indian Navy's deployment in the SCS for joint exercises with ASEAN nations drew criticism from China.
• Strategic implications: China's actions challenge India's maritime interests and its role as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific.

3. Strategic Rivalry in the Indo-Pacific

• India's Indo-Pacific vision: India promotes a "free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific", aligning with partners like the US, Japan, and Australia (QUAD).
• China's counter-response: Beijing perceives India's Indo-Pacific strategy as an attempt to contain its influence, leading to mistrust.
• Impact: This rivalry extends to the SCS, where China's dominance undermines India's strategic objectives.

4. Impact on Regional Partnerships

• India-Vietnam relations: India's growing defense and economic ties with Vietnam, including joint exploration in the SCS, are viewed as provocative by China.
  • Example: The BrahMos missile deal with Vietnam has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing.
• China's response: Beijing uses economic and military leverage to counter India's influence in Southeast Asia, complicating India's regional outreach.

5. Geopolitical Implications of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

• Maritime Silk Road: China's BRI projects in the Indo-Pacific, including port development in the SCS, aim to consolidate its dominance.
• India's concerns: India opposes the BRI due to sovereignty issues (e.g., China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) and its potential to encircle India strategically.
• SCS link: The BRI's maritime component strengthens China's control over critical sea lanes, indirectly affecting India's trade and energy routes.

Way Forward

• Strengthening Regional Partnerships: India should deepen ties with ASEAN nations, Vietnam, and QUAD partners to counterbalance China's influence in the SCS.
• Leveraging International Law: India must continue advocating for adherence to UNCLOS and support multilateral mechanisms like the Code of Conduct in the SCS.
• Enhancing Naval Capabilities: India should bolster its maritime presence through joint exercises, port access agreements, and capacity-building initiatives in the Indo-Pacific.
• Economic Diplomacy: Promoting trade and investment in Southeast Asia can enhance India's soft power and reduce China's economic leverage in the region.

Conclusion

The South China Sea remains a litmus test for India's maritime strategy and its broader relationship with China. By balancing strategic assertiveness with diplomatic engagement, India can safeguard its interests while contributing to regional stability. Upholding freedom of navigation and fostering multilateral cooperation will be key to ensuring a rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific.