South China Sea is a
part of Pacific Ocean located to the south of the China. Several countries,
principally, China, Vietnam claim rights over South China Sea. China has been
very vocal and claims the entire South China Sea. This claim has been
vehemently opposed by the United States. South China Sea’s strategic importance
lies in the fact that it acts as a principal shipping passage connecting
Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean. China’s gaining control over SCS could disrupt
this trade route. About 55% of India’s trade with Asia-Pacific transits via
SCS. India imports oil from Sakhlin to Mangalore refinery via SCS. The ASEAN
nations are wary of the China’s aggression in SCS that could hamper their
interests as well.
The attempt of OVL to
explore oil in the waters belonging to Vietnam was put to hold, thanks to the
pressure imposed and belligerent attitude by the bully China. India has always
been a supporter of SCS’s autonomy. To secure its interests, India should build
cordial maritime relations with ASEAN countries. India should share its
expertise in missile and radar technology with ASEAN countries, most of whom
have geared up for modernization of their defence forces.
