India expressed support for the Philippines amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea, where China's recent aggressive actions have raised concerns. New Delhi stated its opposition to destabilising actions aimed at forcibly altering the status quo.

China has escalated its actions against the Philippines in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea, employing "gray zone tactics." Last week, a member of the Philippines navy sustained severe injuries when Chinese coast guard personnel seized two Filipino ships during a resupply mission to an outpost on Second Thomas Shoal.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a regular media briefing that India opposes destabilising or unilateral actions aimed at altering the status quo through force or coercion. He emphasised the necessity of peacefully resolving disputes, without explicitly mentioning China.

Jaiswal underscored that India has consistently articulated its stance on developments in the South China Sea in response to queries regarding tensions between China and the Philippines.

"We have consistently stressed the importance of adhering to international law, respecting the rules-based order, and resolving disputes peacefully," stated External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. He added that India believes any actions or approaches should not destabilise the region.

The Philippines has become a significant strategic and defence partner for India in Southeast Asia. In April, India delivered the first battery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and launchers to the Philippines, following a $375-million deal signed two years ago to equip the Philippine Marines with three batteries.

Previously, India had acknowledged the Permanent Court of Arbitration's 2016 ruling favouring the Philippines in its territorial dispute with China in the South China Sea. Last year, India revised its stance, highlighting in a joint statement the importance of upholding the arbitral award.

During a visit to Manila in March this year, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar affirmed India's support for the Philippines in defending its national sovereignty and advocated for strict adherence to a rules-based order.

These developments have unfolded amidst India's ongoing military standoff with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), now in its fifth year, which has strained bilateral relations to their lowest point.

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