PM Modi and Takaichi express serious concern over situation in East and South China Sea
New Delhi, July 2
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi on Thursday expressed their serious concerns over the situation in the East and South China Sea.
According to the Joint Statement released after their meeting in New Delhi, both leaders reiterated their strong opposition to any unilateral actions that endanger the safety as well as freedom of navigation and overflight and attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.
"They shared their serious concerns over the growing militarization of disputed features. They reaffirmed that maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, as reflected in UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)," the statement mentioned.
They also shared serious concern over North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes and reaffirmed their commitment to the complete denuclearisation of North Korea in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Both leaders stressed the importance of addressing continued concern regarding the proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies to and from North Korea in the region and beyond.
They also urged all UN Member States to abide by their international obligations under the UNSC resolutions to implement sanctions, including the prohibition on the transfer to North Korea or procurement from North Korea of all arms and related material. They reconfirmed the necessity of immediate resolution of the abductions issue.
"The two Prime Ministers remain concerned over the situation in Myanmar and its regional impact. They reiterated their call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and creation of a conducive environment for an inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders for a Myanmar-led, Myanmar-owned peaceful and durable solution," the Joint Statement added.
They also reiterated their commitment to sustainable peace and stability in the Middle East. Regarding the situation surrounding Iran, they stressed the importance of securing free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, maintaining stable supply chains for energy and other essential goods, and upholding international law, in particular as reflected in UNCLOS.
Both leaders stressed the imperative of advancing the Comprehensive Plan to rebuild Gaza and of living up to the commitment to ensuring a two-State solution. They reaffirmed that continued diplomatic efforts are indispensable to restoring stability at the earliest and achieving lasting peace in the region.
PM Modi and PM Takaichi also expressed support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter and welcomed the ongoing diplomatic efforts by various countries to achieve a just and lasting peace in the region.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some concrete diplomatic action! Japan is a natural partner for India in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. The joint statement on UNCLOS is spot on - no country should try to change borders by force. Hope this leads to more practical cooperation between our navies.
While this is all good on paper, I'm concerned about the practical implementation. China has been building artificial islands and militarizing them for years. Just statements won't stop them. We need to build stronger military alliances and actually patrol these waters together with Japan and other partners.
As a Westerner living in India, I find this balanced approach refreshing. India maintains good relations with all major powers while standing firm on principles. The mention of North Korea denuclearization and Myanmar situation shows a comprehensive foreign policy vision. Well done PM Modi!
I appreciate the diplomatic language but let's be real - China will continue its aggressive behavior until there are real consequences. The joint statement on Gaza and Ukraine shows India's commitment to international law. But we must also remember our own border issues with China in Ladakh. Actions speak louder than words.
Very comprehensive joint statement covering multiple regions - East Asia, Middle East, Europe. This shows India's growing diplomatic maturity. However, I wish there was more concrete action plan mentioned rather than just expressing concerns. What specific measures will be taken to ensure freedom of navigation in South China Sea? 🤔
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.