India seeks code of conduct on disputed South China Sea

India wants a “code of conduct” for every nation to follow while passing through the disputed South China Sea that remains the most controversial geographical space in the Indian Ocean because of China's territorial claims.

“We hope that the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea will be concluded at an early date by consensus,” Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said at the third ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting at Kuala Lumpur in the presence of his counterparts from the USA and China.

Last week, the Obama administration for the first time sent its warships USS Lassen in the South China Sea within 12 nautical miles of one of Beijing's man-made islands in Spratly archipelago, provoking China, which strongly objected to the US naval manoeuvre.

Satellite images show Beijing was constructing several runways to accommodate military aircraft in South China Sea islands, though territorial disputes on these islands remain.  US aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt is now slated to transit through the South China Sea on Thursday with Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter on board.

“The situation in the South China Sea and recent developments there have attracted interest and concern. India hopes all parties to the disputes in the South China Sea region will abide by the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, ensure its effective implementation, and work together to ensure a peaceful resolution of disputes.” Parrikar said.

“Maritime security is a common challenge. The seas and oceans in our region are critical enablers of our prosperity. Freedom of navigation in international waters, the right of passage and overflight, unimpeded commerce and access to resources in accordance with international law,” Parrikar conveyed to ASEAN.