Hindu Editorial Analysis : 22-April-2024

Recently, India provided the Philippines with the BrahMos cruise missile and expressed its strong support for the country’s sovereignty. This action underscores India’s commitment to upholding national rights in the South China Sea, a region marked by complex territorial disputes and significant geopolitical importance.

About the South China Sea

The South China Sea is a vital waterway, stretching from the Strait of Malacca to the Strait of Taiwan. It connects the Pacific and Indian Oceans, making it a critical maritime route for international trade. Several countries border this sea, including:

  • China
  • Taiwan
  • The Philippines
  • Malaysia
  • Brunei
  • Indonesia
  • Singapore
  • Cambodia
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam

This region is rich in natural resources and serves as a crucial trading hub.

Economic Importance of the Region

The South China Sea is crucial for several reasons:

  • Trade Route: Over $5.3 trillion worth of trade passes through these waters, accounting for about one-third of all marine traffic globally.
  • Natural Resources: The sea contains approximately 7.7 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and an estimated total of 28 billion barrels. Natural gas reserves are around 266 trillion cubic feet.
  • Fisheries: More than half of the world’s fishing vessels operate in these waters, providing food and livelihood for millions.

The Philippines, in particular, relies on support from the U.S. and its allies to explore energy resources in the contested areas of the South China Sea.

Territorial Disputes

The South China Sea is the center of disputes, mainly between China and various ASEAN nations. China claims nearly the entire area, causing tensions with countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. These disputes raise significant concerns about navigation rights and the security of maritime routes.

India’s Evolving Position

India’s stance on the South China Sea has changed significantly in recent years. This shift reflects India’s broader strategic and economic aspirations. Notably:

  • Support for the Philippines: India has pledged full support for the Philippines in maintaining its sovereignty amid ongoing tensions with China.
  • International Court of Justice Rulings: In a joint statement with the Philippines in 2023, India urged China to respect international maritime laws and the 2016 ICJ ruling favoring the Philippines.

India is increasingly engaged with countries like the Philippines and Vietnam, offering military aid and more supportive rhetoric.

Economic Stakes and Strategic Engagements

Initially, India’s involvement in the South China Sea was primarily economic. The Look East Policy aimed to strengthen economic ties with Southeast Asia. Indian companies, like ONGC Videsh, are involved in oil and gas exploration in Vietnam, highlighting India’s interests in securing energy resources.

Policy Transformation

India’s foreign policy has transitioned from a passive “Look East” approach to a more active “Act East” strategy. This change reflects:

  • A more strategic engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Emphasis on security cooperation and partnerships with Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam and Malaysia.

Geopolitical Impact and International Stance

Geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea could severely impact major Asia-Pacific economies, potentially causing a 12% loss in GDP if key trade routes were closed. The United States has taken a strong stance against China’s territorial claims, supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific. This alliance with the Philippines is crucial for maintaining regional peace and stability.

Why In News

Recently, India delivered the strategic BrahMos cruise missile to the Philippines, reaffirming its commitment to upholding national sovereignty and enhancing regional security amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.

MCQs about India’s Support for the Philippines in the South China Sea

  1. What significant military support did India provide to the Philippines recently?
    A. F-16 Fighter Jets
    B. BrahMos Cruise Missile
    C. Naval Ships
    D. Helicopters
    Correct Answer: B. BrahMos Cruise Missile
    Explanation: India delivered the BrahMos cruise missile to the Philippines, demonstrating its support for the country’s sovereignty and enhancing regional security.
  2. Which of the following is a major economic significance of the South China Sea?
    A. It has the largest military bases in the world.
    B. It is a critical trade route accounting for a substantial amount of global marine traffic.
    C. It is the main source of freshwater for Southeast Asia.
    D. It is the primary location for international summits.
    Correct Answer: B. It is a critical trade route accounting for a substantial amount of global marine traffic.
    Explanation: The South China Sea serves as a crucial maritime gateway for trade, with over $5.3 trillion worth of goods passing through it, making it essential for various economies.
  3. Which countries primarily engage in territorial disputes in the South China Sea?
    A. Japan and South Korea
    B. India and Pakistan
    C. China and several ASEAN countries
    D. Australia and New Zealand
    Correct Answer: C. China and several ASEAN countries
    Explanation: The territorial disputes in the South China Sea primarily involve China and various ASEAN nations, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia, over claims to islands and resources.
  4. How has India’s foreign policy approach towards the Indo-Pacific region changed in recent years?
    A. It has become more isolationist.
    B. It has shifted from a passive “Look East” policy to a more active “Act East” strategy.
    C. It has focused solely on economic issues without military considerations.
    D. It has aligned exclusively with China.
    Correct Answer: B. It has shifted from a passive “Look East” policy to a more active “Act East” strategy.
    Explanation: India’s policy transformation reflects a proactive stance that emphasizes strategic partnerships, security cooperation, and active engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

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