Discuss the issues of conflict between India and China in the South China Sea.

India-China Conflict in the South China Sea: A Limited but Significant Issue

Introduction:

The South China Sea (SCS) is a strategically vital waterway, rich in resources and crucial for global trade. While India and China are not direct territorial claimants in the SCS, their interests converge and diverge in the region, leading to a complex and evolving relationship marked by both cooperation and conflict. This conflict isn’t a direct territorial dispute like those between China and its Southeast Asian neighbors, but rather stems from broader geopolitical competition and differing perspectives on regional order. The lack of direct conflict doesn’t diminish the significance of the underlying tensions.

Body:

1. Points of Convergence:

Both India and China are major maritime powers with growing economic and strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. They both benefit from the free flow of commerce through the SCS. Cooperation on issues like maritime security, counter-terrorism, and disaster relief could be mutually beneficial. However, this potential for cooperation is often overshadowed by their broader strategic rivalry.

2. Points of Divergence:

China’s assertive claims: China’s expansive claims in the SCS, based on its “nine-dash line,” are a major source of tension. These claims overlap with the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of several Southeast Asian nations, leading to disputes over resources and maritime boundaries. India, while not directly involved in these territorial disputes, views China’s assertive actions with concern, as they challenge the existing international legal order based on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
String of Pearls Strategy: Concerns exist in India regarding China’s “String of Pearls” strategy, which involves establishing a network of military and commercial bases across the Indian Ocean region, including potential access points in the SCS. This perceived encirclement strategy fuels Indian anxieties about its strategic autonomy and security.
Freedom of Navigation: India strongly advocates for freedom of navigation and overflight in the SCS, a principle enshrined in UNCLOS. China’s actions, including the militarization of artificial islands and restrictions on access to certain areas, are seen by India as undermining this principle.
Economic Competition: Both countries are vying for influence and economic opportunities in the region. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and India’s Act East Policy compete for influence and investment in Southeast Asia, indirectly impacting their relationship in the SCS context.

3. Impact on Regional Stability:

The India-China dynamic in the SCS contributes to broader regional instability. China’s assertive actions embolden other claimants, potentially leading to escalation. India’s concerns about China’s growing influence encourage closer ties with other regional powers, such as the US, Japan, and Australia, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. This contributes to a complex web of alliances and counter-alliances, increasing the risk of miscalculation and conflict.

4. International Legal Framework:

The UNCLOS provides a framework for resolving maritime disputes peacefully. However, China’s disregard for certain aspects of UNCLOS, particularly its expansive claims, undermines the effectiveness of this framework. India’s consistent support for UNCLOS and adherence to international law provides a stark contrast to China’s approach, further highlighting the divergence in their perspectives.

Conclusion:

The India-China relationship in the South China Sea is characterized by a complex interplay of cooperation and conflict. While direct territorial disputes are absent, broader strategic competition and differing views on regional order create significant tension. India’s concerns about China’s assertive actions, the “String of Pearls” strategy, and the undermining of freedom of navigation are legitimate and require careful management. A way forward involves strengthening multilateral mechanisms like ASEAN and promoting dialogue based on international law, particularly UNCLOS. India should continue to advocate for a rules-based international order and strengthen its partnerships with other regional powers to ensure a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Ultimately, fostering a cooperative environment based on mutual respect for international law and sovereignty is crucial for ensuring peace and stability in the strategically vital South China Sea. This requires a commitment from both nations to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation over confrontation, ultimately contributing to holistic regional development and upholding the principles of international law.

[/lockercat]HPPCS Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for HPPCS Prelims and HPPCS Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by HPPCS Notes are as follows:-

For any doubt, Just leave us a Chat or Fill us a querry––