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South China Sea verdict: Respect the UNCLOS, says MEA

Speed News Desk | Updated on: 10 February 2017, 1:49 IST

Chinese media has slammed the Hague Tribunal verdict on the South China Sea dispute. After the international tribunal ruled that China does "not have historic rights" in the South China Sea, Chinese state-run Xinhua news agency has said that China "does not accept and does not recognise" the judgement.

"There was no legal basis for China to claim historic rights to resources within sea areas falling within the 'nine-dash line'," the court had said, referring to a demarcation line on a 1947 map of the sea, which is rich in energy, mineral and fishing resources.

Following the verdict, the Ministry of External affairs has issued a statement.

"India supports freedom of navigation and over flight, and unimpeded commerce, based on the principles of international law, as reflected notably in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea(UNCLOS)," the MEA said.

The ministry also said that "India believes that states should resolve disputes through peaceful means without threat or use of force and exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that could complicate or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability".

As a State Party to the UNCLOS, India has also urged the countries concerned "to show utmost respect for the UNCLOS, which establishes the international legal order of the seas and oceans."

"Sea lanes of communication passing through the South China Sea are critical for peace, stability, prosperity and development," it added.

First published: 12 July 2016, 9:01 IST