India and Singapore urge for freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and adherence to UNCLOS

Singapore, September 6: India and Singapore have advocated for a peaceful resolution to the South China Sea disputes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, security, and freedom of navigation in the region in line with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The joint statement was made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore.

The India-Singapore Joint Statement highlighted the need to uphold peace, stability, and safety in the South China Sea while resolving disputes through legal means without resorting to force. Both nations urged all parties to address conflicts peacefully and exercise restraint to avoid escalating tensions.

PM Modi and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stressed that UNCLOS provides the legal framework for maritime activities, including determining rights and jurisdiction over maritime zones. They also expressed hope for a timely and effective Code of Conduct in the South China Sea that respects the rights and interests of all nations involved.

Additionally, the leaders condemned terrorism as a major threat to global stability and reaffirmed their commitment to combat it in all forms. PM Modi's visit to Singapore on September 4-5, 2024, marks his fifth visit to the city-state.