India Teams Up with Indonesia to Counter China in the South China Sea!

India has taken a significant step in countering China’s growing influence in the South China Sea by forging a deeper strategic partnership with Indonesia. In a move that underscores its commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and adherence to international laws in the region, India has joined forces with Indonesia to advocate the implementation of a “full and effective” code of conduct. This partnership comes amidst China’s persistent claims over the resource-rich region and its growing military assertiveness.

A Historic Bilateral Meeting: Strengthening Ties with Indonesia

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held comprehensive talks to address the evolving situation in the South China Sea. The two leaders reiterated their shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and cooperation in the region, with a strong emphasis on upholding international maritime laws. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Indo-Indonesian relations and sets the stage for deeper collaboration in strategic and economic domains.

Deployment of a Liaison Officer in India’s Information Fusion Center

As part of the meeting’s outcomes, both sides agreed to deploy an Indonesian liaison officer at the Information Fusion Center for the Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), located in Gurugram, India. Established in 2018, this center serves as a critical hub for maritime domain awareness, monitoring ship movements, and promoting regional security. The inclusion of Indonesia in this initiative strengthens the collaborative framework and fosters closer ties between the two nations.

The Importance of the South China Sea

The South China Sea is a vital waterway, serving as a major trade route and a significant source of hydrocarbons. However, its strategic importance has also made it a hotspot for territorial disputes. China has laid claim to almost the entire region, invoking historical justifications, while several ASEAN nations, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brunei, vehemently oppose these claims. Beijing’s actions, including the militarization of artificial islands and restricting access to other nations, have raised concerns globally.

India and Indonesia’s Push for a Binding Code of Conduct

India and Indonesia, along with other ASEAN nations, have been vocal about the need for a binding code of conduct in the South China Sea. Such a framework would ensure that disputes are resolved peacefully and in accordance with international maritime laws, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). By aligning their positions, India and Indonesia aim to counter China’s unilateral actions and promote a rules-based order in the region.

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