GS Question

The bilateral issues between India and China in the context of the South China Sea mainly revolve around maritime territorial disputes, strategic competition, and concerns over maritime security. Here are some key aspects of these issues:

1. Territorial Disputes: Both India and China have overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea. China claims almost the entire South China Sea based on its historical Nine-Dash Line, which has been challenged by other countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. India has not directly claimed any territory in the region but supports the freedom of navigation and opposes any attempts to change the status quo through unilateral actions.

2. Strategic Competition: India and China have been increasingly asserting their influence in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, respectively, as part of their larger strategic competition. China's consolidation and militarization of islands in the South China Sea have raised concerns for India as it affects the balance of power and its own strategic interests in the region.

3. Maritime Security: India and China share concerns regarding maritime security in the South China Sea. Both countries rely heavily on the region for trade and energy supplies, and any unstable situation or conflict can disrupt their economic interests. Therefore, safeguarding maritime security and ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight is crucial for both nations.

4. Infrastructure Projects: China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) includes infrastructure projects in the Indian Ocean, including in countries surrounding India. Some of these projects, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), have raised suspicions in India over their strategic implications. Indian assertiveness in managing its influence in the Indian Ocean can be seen as a response to China's expanding presence in the region.

5. Regional Cooperation: Despite the tensions and differences, India and China have recognized the importance of regional cooperation in maintaining stability and security in the South China Sea. Both countries are part of regional forums like the ASEAN Regional Forum and have expressed support for a peaceful resolution of disputes based on international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

In conclusion, the bilateral issues between India and China in the context of the South China Sea involve territorial disputes, strategic competition, and concerns over maritime security. While both countries have expressed support for the freedom of navigation and regional stability, their differing territorial claims and expanding influence in the region contribute to the complexities of their relationship in the South China Sea.