The South China Sea in India’s Foreign Policy Adjustment

Abstract

During the first two decades of the 21st century, India has shifted its policies towards the South China Sea from neutral, passive to proactive and increased engagement. The results of this policy analysis suggest that India assumes the role of a major country and consistently works towards maintaining its presence and enhancing its influence in the South China Sea, despite not being directly involved in the dispute. That indicates the South China Sea is becoming a crucial factor in India’s strategy to enhance its position in the region and the world. India shares similar views and approaches with Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, on protecting freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as on resolving disputes in an amicable manner based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). India also supports the early conclusion of the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea. India’s active involvement in the complex South China Sea environment, while not a direct stakeholder, reflects its ambition to play a larger strategic role in Southeast Asian and Pacific region while expanding its sphere of influence in the Eastern maritime region.