Hours after China lost the case on its “historic rights” on the South China Sea in an international court, India joined Japan and the U.S. indicating that the verdict shows strengthening of the “international law”.
“India supports freedom of navigation and over-flight and unimpeded commerce, based on the principles of international law, as reflected notably in the UNCLOS (UN Convention of the Law of the Sea). India believes that states should resolve disputes through peaceful means without threat or use of force and exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that could complicate or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability,” said the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement.
A senior diplomat from the Philippines, the winning party in the case, told The Hindu that the verdict which was delivered at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) at The Hague, proves that “international law is a great leveller” among the sovereign nation states.
Setting a precedent
“The award in the case has recognised the position of the Philippines and proves once again that legal framework of international system can be used to peacefully settle maritime disputes,” said the diplomat.
The senior diplomat took note that the recognition of the Exclusive Economic Zone of Philippines in the South China Sea will help the economy of the Philippines and will set a precedent. The diplomat also said that China’s description of the “Final Award” on the case as “null and void” is on “expected lines”.
Japan and the U.S. also emphasised that the tribunal’s decision is “legally binding” as China is a member of the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea and therefore will have to abide by the “Final Award”.
Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “As the Tribunal’s award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of UNCLOS, the parties to this case are required to comply with the award. Japan strongly expects that the parties’ compliance with this award will eventually lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea. “
A new opportunity: U.S. The Japanese response pointed out the importance of resorting to “peaceful means” to resolve international disputes. However the U.S., which has been vocal in its support to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, urged countries to avoid “provocative statements and actions”.
“This decision can and should serve as a new opportunity to renew efforts to address maritime disputes peacefully”, said a statement from the State Department.
