New Delhi and Tokyo said on Thursday that the escalating dispute in the East China Sea and the South China Sea could threaten freedom of navigation and invite unilateral actions that alter the status quo. The joint statement, issued by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urged all parties to respect international law and avoid actions that could destabilise the region.
Both governments expressed “serious concern” over China’s increasing naval patrols and the construction of artificial islands in disputed waters. They warned that any unilateral move “would endanger freedom of navigation and overflight” and could “alter the status quo by force.” The statement called for dialogue and a peaceful settlement in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
India’s Foreign Minister stated that the country supports a rules‑based order and that it “cannot accept any attempts to change the status quo by force.” Japan’s Foreign Minister echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open sea lanes for international trade.
The joint communique was released amid heightened tensions after China announced new maritime claims that overlap with those of several Southeast Asian nations. Both India and Japan have previously voiced support for the freedom of navigation operations conducted by the United States and its allies in the region.
Analysis:
The statement reflects a coordinated effort by India and Japan to counterbalance China’s expanding maritime footprint. By framing their concerns in terms of international law and freedom of navigation, the two countries reinforce their positions as defenders of a rules‑based order. The joint wording also signals to regional partners that India and Japan remain vigilant against unilateral actions that could shift the strategic balance in the South and East China Seas.
Sources
The Hindu. “India‑Japan ties should not target third party, China.” https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/india-japan-ties-should-not-target-third-party-china/article71178490.ece
Story synopsis gathered from: The Hindu – National — source
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