Amid tensions with China, US warship USS Benfold passed through the South China Sea as Chinese forces followed the warship.

The PLA said the entry of the US warship was "illegal" even as the US Navy said the warship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Paracel Island, consistent with international law".

China claims the South China Sea as its own even though other countries in the region including Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei have also have similar claims to the islands.

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The international court at The Hague had rejected China's claim of historical rights over the islands however the Chinese government hasn't recognised the verdict.

"We solemnly demand that the US side immediately stop such provocative actions, otherwise it will bear the serious consequences of unforeseen events," the PLA said.

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7th Fleet spokesman Mark Langford informed that&nbsp;"at the conclusion of the operation, USS Benfold exited the excessive claim and continued operations in the South China Sea." The US carries out what it calls "freedom of navigation operations" asserting&nbsp;that its warships sail&nbsp;through international waters.

The PLA said it had deployed naval and air forces to engage and track down the US destroyer. It was the first time a US warship had sailed through the South China Sea this year.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with China, US warship USS Benfold passed through the South China Sea as Chinese forces followed the warship. The PLA said the entry of the US warship was "illegal" even as the US Navy said the warship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Paracel Island, consistent with international law".

Amid tensions with China, US warship USS Benfold passed through the South China Sea as Chinese forces followed the warship. The PLA said the entry of the US warship was "illegal" even as the US Navy said the warship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Paracel Island, consistent with international law". China claims the South China Sea as its own even though other countries in the region including Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei have also have similar claims to the islands. Also Read in Pics: Nanning: China's new warship with anti-stealth radar The international court at The Hague had rejected China's claim of historical rights over the islands however the Chinese government hasn't recognised the verdict. "We solemnly demand that the US side immediately stop such provocative actions, otherwise it will bear the serious consequences of unforeseen events," the PLA said. Also Read in Pics: Why US, China tested missiles on same day amid tension in South China Sea 7th Fleet spokesman Mark Langford informed that "at the conclusion of the operation, USS Benfold exited the excessive claim and continued operations in the South China Sea." The US carries out what it calls "freedom of navigation operations" asserting that its warships sail through international waters. The PLA said it had deployed naval and air forces to engage and track down the US destroyer. It was the first time a US warship had sailed through the South China Sea this year. (With inputs from Agencies)

Chinese Navy, Air Force follow US warship in South China Sea

Amid tensions in the South China Sea with China, the US State Department in a document hit out against the "unlawful" claims by President Xi's government.

China lays claim to the disputed islands in the South China Sea, however, other countries including Vietnam, Taiwan, Philippines also claim areas surrounding the sea bringing them in conflict with the Chinese regime.

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"The overall effect of these maritime claims is that the PRC unlawfully claims sovereignty or some form of exclusive jurisdiction over most of the South China Sea," the US document said.

The US State Department said China should halt "unlawful and coercive activities" in the South China Sea. US warships have often sailed through the disputed waters angering China.

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An international court in 2016 had rejected China's claims over the island, however, the Chinese regime refused to abide by the verdict.

The US State Department said there was "no legal basis" for China's so-called "historic rights". The US State Department also rejected the "island group" criteria put forward by China.

"These claims gravely undermine the rule of law in the oceans and numerous universally recognized provisions of international law reflected in the Convention," it said

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The former Trump administration had earlier opened backed the claims of southeast nations in the South China Sea challenging China. The area is rich with mineral and gas deposits with southeast nations fearful of China's growing military influence in the region.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions in the South China Sea with China, the US State Department in a document hit out against the "unlawful" claims by President Xi's government. China lays claim to the disputed islands in the South China Sea, however, other countries including Vietnam, Taiwan, Philippines also claim areas surrounding the sea bringing them in conflict with the Chinese regime.

Amid tensions in the South China Sea with China, the US State Department in a document hit out against the "unlawful" claims by President Xi's government. China lays claim to the disputed islands in the South China Sea, however, other countries including Vietnam, Taiwan, Philippines also claim areas surrounding the sea bringing them in conflict with the Chinese regime. Also Read in Pics: China's new warship is set to change balance in South China Sea "The overall effect of these maritime claims is that the PRC unlawfully claims sovereignty or some form of exclusive jurisdiction over most of the South China Sea," the US document said. The US State Department said China should halt "unlawful and coercive activities" in the South China Sea. US warships have often sailed through the disputed waters angering China. Also Read | Aircraft carrier killer: Why US, China tested missiles on same day amid tension at South China Sea An international court in 2016 had rejected China's claims over the island, however, the Chinese regime refused to abide by the verdict. The US State Department said there was "no legal basis" for China's so-called "historic rights". The US State Department also rejected the "island group" criteria put forward by China. "These claims gravely undermine the rule of law in the oceans and numerous universally recognized provisions of international law reflected in the Convention," it said Also Read: China's bomber carries out mine laying exercise in South China Sea The former Trump administration had earlier opened backed the claims of southeast nations in the South China Sea challenging China. The area is rich with mineral and gas deposits with southeast nations fearful of China's growing military influence in the region. (With inputs from Agencies)

China's claims in South China Sea gravely undermines rule of law: US State Department study

China and Japan have reached an agreement to establish a hotline for their disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Japan's Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi held a two-hour video conference with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe and expressed his grave concerns over Chinese coast guard ships activities in waters surrounding the Japanese administered Senkaku Islands.

The Diaoyu islands, also known as Senkaku islands have long been an object of a territorial dispute between Beijing and&nbsp;Tokyo.&nbsp;

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Japan's Defence Ministry released after the ministers' meeting stating "Minister Kishi delivered that Japan opposes attempts of unilateral change to the status quo by coercion and that Japan possesses grave concerns against such actions, while pointing out individual events such as activities by People's Liberation Army and China Coast Guard vessels."

"China will firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. The two sides should focus on the overall interests of bilateral relations and strive to maintain stability in the East China Sea," said a release from the Defence Ministry.

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"We confirmed that the early establishment of a hotline between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities is important," Kishi said.

"Since there are (unresolved) issues with China, we need to try and keep having candid communication so we can promote exchanges and foster mutual understanding and confidence," Kishi added.

China's increasing pressure on Taiwan is causing jitters in Japan because Beijing's control of the island would bring Chinese forces within around 100 kilometres (62 miles) of its territory and would threaten key maritime trade routes that supply Japan with oil and other goods.

It would also provide China with bases for unfettered access to the western Pacific.

Last month, two&nbsp;Chinese ships&nbsp;had intruded into Japanese coastal waters near the disputed islands as Japan lodged a protest with China over the issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and Japan have reached an agreement to establish a hotline for their disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Japan's Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi held a two-hour video conference with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe and expressed his grave concerns over Chinese coast guard ships activities in waters surrounding the Japanese administered Senkaku Islands.

China and Japan have reached an agreement to establish a hotline for their disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Japan's Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi held a two-hour video conference with his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe and expressed his grave concerns over Chinese coast guard ships activities in waters surrounding the Japanese administered Senkaku Islands. The Diaoyu islands, also known as Senkaku islands have long been an object of a territorial dispute between Beijing and Tokyo. Also read | Analysis: With an eye on China, Japan's ruling party makes unprecedented defence spending pledge Japan's Defence Ministry released after the ministers' meeting stating "Minister Kishi delivered that Japan opposes attempts of unilateral change to the status quo by coercion and that Japan possesses grave concerns against such actions, while pointing out individual events such as activities by People's Liberation Army and China Coast Guard vessels." "China will firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. The two sides should focus on the overall interests of bilateral relations and strive to maintain stability in the East China Sea," said a release from the Defence Ministry. Also read | As tensions rise with Japan, China reasserts Diaoyus claim with island survey "We confirmed that the early establishment of a hotline between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities is important," Kishi said. "Since there are (unresolved) issues with China, we need to try and keep having candid communication so we can promote exchanges and foster mutual understanding and confidence," Kishi added. China's increasing pressure on Taiwan is causing jitters in Japan because Beijing's control of the island would bring Chinese forces within around 100 kilometres (62 miles) of its territory and would threaten key maritime trade routes that supply Japan with oil and other goods. It would also provide China with bases for unfettered access to the western Pacific. Last month, two Chinese ships had intruded into Japanese coastal waters near the disputed islands as Japan lodged a protest with China over the issue. (With inputs from agencies)

China, Japan to establish hotline for disputes over Taiwan and South China Sea

Amid tensions with Taiwan, reports claim China's H-6J bomber touted as the "latest type of bomber" carried out live-fire&nbsp;exercises in the South China Sea.

The bomber is affiliated to PLA's southern theatre command. According to state-run Global Times, the exercise involved&nbsp;night trials under heavy clouds.

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The Chinese daily said the aircraft laid sea mines and dropped bombs which reportedly targeted islands and reefs.

The bombers carried out another wave of bombing after being supplied with munitions. The Chinese newspaper said the H-6J bomber also had YJ-12 anti-ship missiles and sea mines.

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Global Times said the H-6J bomber "displayed traditional bombing capability in addition to standoff strike competence."

China claims islands in the South China Sea which possesses resource-rich areas including key sea lanes. The islands are also claimed by other countries including Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei.

The US and China have exchanged heated words over the South China Sea issue as US warships have extensively sailed through the disputed zone.

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The US recently completed a joint exercise with Japan and other countries in the Philippine Sea off Japan's southern coast.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Biden administration had warned China's action on Philippine boats as "dangerous, provocative, and unjustified" as Chinese coast guard boats reportedly used water cannons on Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. The US lashed out saying the move undermined "peace and security in the region" amid simmering tension with China.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with Taiwan, reports claim China's H-6J bomber touted as the "latest type of bomber" carried out live-fire exercises in the South China Sea. The bomber is affiliated to PLA's southern theatre command.

Amid tensions with Taiwan, reports claim China's H-6J bomber touted as the "latest type of bomber" carried out live-fire exercises in the South China Sea. The bomber is affiliated to PLA's southern theatre command. According to state-run Global Times, the exercise involved night trials under heavy clouds. Also Read: This is China's anti-submarine aircraft which targets Taiwan The Chinese daily said the aircraft laid sea mines and dropped bombs which reportedly targeted islands and reefs. The bombers carried out another wave of bombing after being supplied with munitions. The Chinese newspaper said the H-6J bomber also had YJ-12 anti-ship missiles and sea mines. Also Read: How China's 'greyzone warfare' is designed to subdue the enemy Global Times said the H-6J bomber "displayed traditional bombing capability in addition to standoff strike competence." China claims islands in the South China Sea which possesses resource-rich areas including key sea lanes. The islands are also claimed by other countries including Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. The US and China have exchanged heated words over the South China Sea issue as US warships have extensively sailed through the disputed zone. Also Read: China's Air Force decoded: How PLAAF is evolving its tactical strategy The US recently completed a joint exercise with Japan and other countries in the Philippine Sea off Japan's southern coast. Earlier this month, the Biden administration had warned China's action on Philippine boats as "dangerous, provocative, and unjustified" as Chinese coast guard boats reportedly used water cannons on Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. The US lashed out saying the move undermined "peace and security in the region" amid simmering tension with China. (With inputs from Agencies)

China's bomber carries out mine laying exercise in South China Sea

This is China's anti-submarine aircraft which targets Taiwan

The Philippines has rejected China’s demand to remove its naval ship anchored on a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, its defence chief said on Thursday, adding that Chinese coast guard ships should leave the area and stop blocking Manila’s supply boats.

The Philippines intentionally grounded a warship, BRP Sierra Madre, at the Second Thomas shoal in 1999 to reinforce Manila's sovereignty claims in the Spratly archipelago, according to Reuters.

But on Tuesday, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian had said “that the Philippine side honour its commitment and remove its illegally grounded vessel from Ren’ai Jiao ... This position remains unchanged.”

Beijing refers the disputed shoal as Ren’ai Jiao, while&nbsp;Filipinos refer to as Ayungin.

This assertion was rejected by Philippine defence secretary Delfin Lorenzana, claiming that it was China which has trespassed into their area.

&nbsp;“That ship has been there since 1999. If there was a commitment it would have been removed a long time ago,” he said.

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The Second Thomas Shoal, 105 nautical miles (195 km) off Palawan, is the temporary home of a small contingent of military aboard the rusty ship, which is stuck on a reef.

Lorenzana accused China of "trespassing" when its coast guard interrupted a resupply mission for the troops.

China claims the majority of the South China Sea as its own, using a “nine-dash line” on maps that an international arbitration ruling in 2016 said has no legal basis.

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The Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines’ 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone, as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which China has ratified.

In 2016, the UN arbitration body backed the Philippines claims to the shoal and invalidated China’s rights, leaving them without any legal basis

“We have two documents attesting that we have sovereign rights in our EEZ while they don't, and their claims have no basis,” Lorenzana said.

“China should abide by its international obligations that it is part of,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines has rejected China’s demand to remove its naval ship anchored on a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, its defence chief said on Thursday, adding that Chinese coast guard ships should leave the area and stop blocking Manila’s supply boats.

The Philippines has rejected China’s demand to remove its naval ship anchored on a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, its defence chief said on Thursday, adding that Chinese coast guard ships should leave the area and stop blocking Manila’s supply boats. The Philippines intentionally grounded a warship, BRP Sierra Madre, at the Second Thomas shoal in 1999 to reinforce Manila's sovereignty claims in the Spratly archipelago, according to Reuters. But on Tuesday, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian had said “that the Philippine side honour its commitment and remove its illegally grounded vessel from Ren’ai Jiao ... This position remains unchanged.” Beijing refers the disputed shoal as Ren’ai Jiao, while Filipinos refer to as Ayungin. This assertion was rejected by Philippine defence secretary Delfin Lorenzana, claiming that it was China which has trespassed into their area. “That ship has been there since 1999. If there was a commitment it would have been removed a long time ago,” he said. Also read | Can South China Sea dispute escalate into a full-scale war? The Second Thomas Shoal, 105 nautical miles (195 km) off Palawan, is the temporary home of a small contingent of military aboard the rusty ship, which is stuck on a reef. Lorenzana accused China of "trespassing" when its coast guard interrupted a resupply mission for the troops. China claims the majority of the South China Sea as its own, using a “nine-dash line” on maps that an international arbitration ruling in 2016 said has no legal basis. Also read | What is at stake for India in South China Sea? The Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines’ 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone, as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which China has ratified. In 2016, the UN arbitration body backed the Philippines claims to the shoal and invalidated China’s rights, leaving them without any legal basis “We have two documents attesting that we have sovereign rights in our EEZ while they don't, and their claims have no basis,” Lorenzana said. “China should abide by its international obligations that it is part of,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines rejects China’s demand to remove ship from disputed South China Sea shoal

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China: Chinese arms exports decline despite loyal clientele

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to meet European Council President Charles Michel on November 29 to discuss closer ties in the Indo-Pacific, reported Kyodo News citing government sources. As per the report, Kishida and Michel are expected to raise importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan strait and also increasing Chinese assertiveness in East and South China.

The European Union is already strengthening its commitment to Indo-Pacific region.

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The meet between Michel and Kishida will take place in Japan. This will be Michel's first visit to Japan since he took office in December 2019. His Japan visit is taking place after the EU released its new Indo-Pacific strategy in September that includes bolstering relations with Taiwan amid repeated intrusions of Chinese military planes into the self-governed island`s air defense identification zone, said the Japanese news outlet.

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Earlier this month, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen held talks with a European Parliament delegation during their historic first visit to the democratic island. Taiwan is a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China. Despite being governed separately for more than seven decades, Beijing claims sovereignty over Taiwan. China has also threatened that "Taiwan`s independence" means war. On June 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to complete reunification with self-ruled Taiwan and vowed to smash any attempts at formal independence for the island. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to meet European Council President Charles Michel on November 29 to discuss closer ties in the Indo-Pacific, reported Kyodo News citing government sources.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to meet European Council President Charles Michel on November 29 to discuss closer ties in the Indo-Pacific, reported Kyodo News citing government sources. As per the report, Kishida and Michel are expected to raise importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan strait and also increasing Chinese assertiveness in East and South China. The European Union is already strengthening its commitment to Indo-Pacific region. Also Read | Japan announces $490 billion stimulus package to tackle Covid knockdown The meet between Michel and Kishida will take place in Japan. This will be Michel's first visit to Japan since he took office in December 2019. His Japan visit is taking place after the EU released its new Indo-Pacific strategy in September that includes bolstering relations with Taiwan amid repeated intrusions of Chinese military planes into the self-governed island`s air defense identification zone, said the Japanese news outlet. Also Read | After Taiwan opens de-facto embassy, China downgrades diplomatic relations with Lithuania Earlier this month, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen held talks with a European Parliament delegation during their historic first visit to the democratic island. Taiwan is a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China. Despite being governed separately for more than seven decades, Beijing claims sovereignty over Taiwan. China has also threatened that "Taiwan`s independence" means war. On June 1, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to complete reunification with self-ruled Taiwan and vowed to smash any attempts at formal independence for the island. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid Chinese assertiveness, Japan PM to meet EU Council chief to discuss Indo-Pacific region

Tensions between the Philippines and China have once again erupted over Chinese claims on the South China Sea. The Philippines has accused Chinese coast guard vessels of firing water cannons at boats that were delivering supplies to filipino military personnel in the South China Sea specifically the Second Thomas Shoal which belongs to Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Tensions erupt between the Philippines and China once again

In a latest development in the restive South China Sea, Chinese coastguard vessels used water cannon and blocked two Philippine supply boats heading towards a disputed shoal, which has been occupied by Filipino marines in the region. The action has drawn an angry protest from Manila. &nbsp;

On Thursday, the Philippines’ foreign secretary warned that its vessels are covered under a mutual defence treaty with the United States. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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South China Sea seems to have been a bone of contention for a long time. Several nations, such as China, Philippines, etc, have been at loggerheads due to overlapping claims in the region. &nbsp;

In the incident, no one was hurt in the disputed waters on Tuesday, said Teodoro Locsin Jr. &nbsp;

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The secretary added that the two supply ships had to abort their mission to provide food supplies to Filipino forces, who have been occupying the Second Thomas Shoal, which lies off western Palawan province in the internationally recognised exclusive economic zone of Philippines. &nbsp;

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[1] The Western Command in Palawan reports that on 16 November 2021, three (3) Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked and water cannoned two (2) Philippine supply boats en route to transport food supplies to Philippine military personnel in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal).
— DFA Philippines (@DFAPHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/DFAPHL/status/1461064811731566592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a tweet, Locsin said that the actions of three Chinese coastguard ships were illegal. The secretary asked them “to take heed and back off”. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a latest development in the restive South China Sea, Chinese coastguard vessels used water cannon and blocked two Philippine supply boats heading towards a disputed shoal, which has been occupied by Filipino marines in the region.

In a latest development in the restive South China Sea, Chinese coastguard vessels used water cannon and blocked two Philippine supply boats heading towards a disputed shoal, which has been occupied by Filipino marines in the region. The action has drawn an angry protest from Manila. On Thursday, the Philippines’ foreign secretary warned that its vessels are covered under a mutual defence treaty with the United States. Also Read: New satellite images expose China’s latest land grabbing attempts in Bhutan South China Sea seems to have been a bone of contention for a long time. Several nations, such as China, Philippines, etc, have been at loggerheads due to overlapping claims in the region. In the incident, no one was hurt in the disputed waters on Tuesday, said Teodoro Locsin Jr. Also Read: China will soon be capable of launching a surprise nuke attack on US, warns top military official The secretary added that the two supply ships had to abort their mission to provide food supplies to Filipino forces, who have been occupying the Second Thomas Shoal, which lies off western Palawan province in the internationally recognised exclusive economic zone of Philippines. [1] The Western Command in Palawan reports that on 16 November 2021, three (3) Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked and water cannoned two (2) Philippine supply boats en route to transport food supplies to Philippine military personnel in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal). — DFA Philippines (@DFAPHL) November 17, 2021 × In a tweet, Locsin said that the actions of three Chinese coastguard ships were illegal. The secretary asked them “to take heed and back off”. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese coastguard use water cannon, block Filipino vessels from reaching disputed shoal in South China Sea

The South China Sea in the Western Pacific Ocean has become one of the most conflicted zones of the world.

China is trying every possible strategy to make this naval area a part of its domestic territorial water.

China has been increasingly assertive over its extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea and is trying to establish its sovereign rights over many ''disputed islands'' in the region.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-warships-in-the-south-china-sea-403275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Competing claims for the South China Sea by countries such as Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam have been rejected by China.

While China has a dispute with Indonesia regarding Natuna Islands, it also has a conflict with Vietnam about the Spratly Islands and Paracel Islands are involved.

Its maximum extent of historical claims with the South China Sea are represented by the nine-dash line.

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The South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in shipping trade pass annually, is filled with natural as well as ecosystem resources and has geostrategic importance.

It has a reserve of 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 11 billion barrels of oil.

To counter China, Vietnam is increasing its dependency on India. The two countries had conducted a two-day passex drill in the South China Sea amid high tensions with Beijing.

It was the first drill conducted by India after the clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan valley where it lost about twenty of its military personnel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-at-stake-for-india-in-south-china-sea-372397">Also read |&nbsp;What is at stake for India in South China Sea?</a>

Paracel Islands is a collection of ten small coral islands in the Northwestern part of the South China Sea. It is a rich fishing ground due to its abundant marine life. Experts believe their is a possibility that they are rich in energy reserves as well.

It was named by the Portuguese mapmakers in the 16th century. China has forcefully occupied it for over 45 years.&nbsp;

There is no indigenous population on these islands to protest Beijing's move. They are in fact filled with Chinese military garrisons, artificial harbours, and airfields.

Vietnam calls Paracel Islands a part of the Nguyen dynasty which ruled the country as per the maps in 1686.

Gia Long, the king of the Nguyen dynasty had formally annexed the islands in 1816 and established Vietnamese sovereignty over it.

However, China's narrative differs and it claims that the islands have been under its control for over 2,000 years. The country calls them Xisha.

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According to a statement issued by its foreign ministry, ''China has explored and discovered resources in the South China Sea before any other country and has thus, established its sovereignty over this region.

Territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea have become a challenge for the peace and security of the Indo-Pacific region.

In such a scenario, maintaining the South China Sea as a safe zone with time is becoming an important challenge for extra-regional countries such as India, the United States, and Australia which have formed the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) along with Japan to counter China.

Although India does not share a direct boundary in the South China Sea, it tries to maintain a rule-based order and freedom of navigation in the region.

It has increased its historical balanced approach and started to play a proactive role in this region.

India has revealed its vision to the world by changing its 'Look East Policy' into 'Act East Policy.'

Last year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised ''securing the interest'' of other countries in the South China Sea during a virtual meeting his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

The Indian ministry of external affairs has stated clearly that the country wants a rule-based order under the United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in this region.

India has expressed concern over a Chinese proposal for the region in which it wants to restrict any third-party military exercise.

It had released a bilateral document named 'Vietnam Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People.' In this document, both parties have emphasised on the effective implementation of the declaration on the conduct of parties in the South China Sea.

It had sent a strong message that nations will not let anyone hamper the legitimate rights and interests in this region.

The joint statement of India and Vietnam also promoted significance of non-militarisation and self-restaurants in the South China Sea so that the situation in this region does not complicate further and maintain peace as well as stability.

Vietnam is an important country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) which has severe disputes with China.

India and Vietnam have signed an agreement for oil exploration in the South China Sea.

India's Atomic Energy Regulatory Board Vietnam's Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety department have signed an agreement regarding defence industry and nuclear cooperation.

It has also provided a grant of $5 million for the development of an army software park at the Nation Telecommunication University of Vietnam.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, India has assured to establish a reliable, efficient and resilient supply chains with Vietnam.

Vietnam's health ministry has approved India's Covaxin vaccine, made by Bharat Biotech, for emergency use.

Last year, India had handed over a high speed guard boat along with a defence line of credit of $100 million to Vietnam.

&nbsp;

The South China Sea in the Western Pacific Ocean has become one of the most conflicted zones of the world. China is trying every possible strategy to make this naval area a part of its domestic territorial water.

The South China Sea in the Western Pacific Ocean has become one of the most conflicted zones of the world. China is trying every possible strategy to make this naval area a part of its domestic territorial water. China has been increasingly assertive over its extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea and is trying to establish its sovereign rights over many ''disputed islands'' in the region. Competing claims for the South China Sea by countries such as Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam have been rejected by China. While China has a dispute with Indonesia regarding Natuna Islands, it also has a conflict with Vietnam about the Spratly Islands and Paracel Islands are involved. Its maximum extent of historical claims with the South China Sea are represented by the nine-dash line. Also read | Can South China Sea dispute escalate into a full-scale war? The South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in shipping trade pass annually, is filled with natural as well as ecosystem resources and has geostrategic importance. It has a reserve of 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 11 billion barrels of oil. To counter China, Vietnam is increasing its dependency on India. The two countries had conducted a two-day passex drill in the South China Sea amid high tensions with Beijing. It was the first drill conducted by India after the clash with Chinese troops in the Galwan valley where it lost about twenty of its military personnel. Also read | What is at stake for India in South China Sea? Paracel Islands is a collection of ten small coral islands in the Northwestern part of the South China Sea. It is a rich fishing ground due to its abundant marine life. Experts believe their is a possibility that they are rich in energy reserves as well. It was named by the Portuguese mapmakers in the 16th century. China has forcefully occupied it for over 45 years. There is no indigenous population on these islands to protest Beijing's move. They are in fact filled with Chinese military garrisons, artificial harbours, and airfields. Vietnam calls Paracel Islands a part of the Nguyen dynasty which ruled the country as per the maps in 1686. Gia Long, the king of the Nguyen dynasty had formally annexed the islands in 1816 and established Vietnamese sovereignty over it. However, China's narrative differs and it claims that the islands have been under its control for over 2,000 years. The country calls them Xisha. Also read | 'Global consequences': US, China clash at UN over South China Sea row According to a statement issued by its foreign ministry, ''China has explored and discovered resources in the South China Sea before any other country and has thus, established its sovereignty over this region. Territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea have become a challenge for the peace and security of the Indo-Pacific region. In such a scenario, maintaining the South China Sea as a safe zone with time is becoming an important challenge for extra-regional countries such as India, the United States, and Australia which have formed the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) along with Japan to counter China. Although India does not share a direct boundary in the South China Sea, it tries to maintain a rule-based order and freedom of navigation in the region. It has increased its historical balanced approach and started to play a proactive role in this region. India has revealed its vision to the world by changing its 'Look East Policy' into 'Act East Policy.' Last year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised ''securing the interest'' of other countries in the South China Sea during a virtual meeting his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc. The Indian ministry of external affairs has stated clearly that the country wants a rule-based order under the United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in this region. India has expressed concern over a Chinese proposal for the region in which it wants to restrict any third-party military exercise. It had released a bilateral document named 'Vietnam Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People.' In this document, both parties have emphasised on the effective implementation of the declaration on the conduct of parties in the South China Sea. It had sent a strong message that nations will not let anyone hamper the legitimate rights and interests in this region. The joint statement of India and Vietnam also promoted significance of non-militarisation and self-restaurants in the South China Sea so that the situation in this region does not complicate further and maintain peace as well as stability. Vietnam is an important country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) which has severe disputes with China. India and Vietnam have signed an agreement for oil exploration in the South China Sea. India's Atomic Energy Regulatory Board Vietnam's Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety department have signed an agreement regarding defence industry and nuclear cooperation. It has also provided a grant of $5 million for the development of an army software park at the Nation Telecommunication University of Vietnam. During the COVID-19 pandemic, India has assured to establish a reliable, efficient and resilient supply chains with Vietnam. Vietnam's health ministry has approved India's Covaxin vaccine, made by Bharat Biotech, for emergency use. Last year, India had handed over a high speed guard boat along with a defence line of credit of $100 million to Vietnam.

How can India help Vietnam in the disputed South China Sea?

United States sent a convoy of military planes including a 'nuke sniffer' plane over South China Sea, said a report in South China Morning Post (SCMP). The reported sortie has taken place just a month after a US nuclear submarine hit an underwater object in the South China Sea in October.

The SCMP report quoted experts from an unnamed think tank who, based on satellite images, said that the convoy of US military planes included Constant Phoenix, the 'nuke sniffer', an E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System aircraft, two P-8A maritime patrol planes, and one EP-3E electronic warfare and reconnaissance aircraft.

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On October 2, USS Connecticut, a US nuclear submarine hit an unidentified object underwater in South China Sea. The incident, that had taken place in contentious South China Sea had hit headlines everywhere.

China had slammed the incident as 'irresponsible' and had demanded that it be declared whether there was a nuclear leak as a result of the collision.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-china-sea-indo-pacific-find-mention-during-indian-pm-modis-meet-with-asean-leaders-424701">South China Sea, Indo-Pacific find mention during Indian PM Modi’s meet with ASEAN leaders</a>

China claims the entirety of South China Sea as being part of it territorial waters based on the so-called 'nine-dash line'. Chinese assertiveness and even aggressive moves has raised tension in the region. China currently has disputes with Japan and Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam and others over the issue of South China Sea.

The US and other western countries have taken a stand against China in South China Sea and have batted for freedom of navigation. US and other navies often carry freedom of navigation exercises in South China Sea eliciting angry reactions from Beijing.

United States sent a convoy of military planes including a 'nuke sniffer' plane over South China Sea, said a report in South China Morning Post (SCMP). The reported sortie has taken place just a month after a US nuclear submarine hit an underwater object in the South China Sea in October.

United States sent a convoy of military planes including a 'nuke sniffer' plane over South China Sea, said a report in South China Morning Post (SCMP). The reported sortie has taken place just a month after a US nuclear submarine hit an underwater object in the South China Sea in October. The SCMP report quoted experts from an unnamed think tank who, based on satellite images, said that the convoy of US military planes included Constant Phoenix, the 'nuke sniffer', an E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System aircraft, two P-8A maritime patrol planes, and one EP-3E electronic warfare and reconnaissance aircraft. × On October 2, USS Connecticut, a US nuclear submarine hit an unidentified object underwater in South China Sea. The incident, that had taken place in contentious South China Sea had hit headlines everywhere. China had slammed the incident as 'irresponsible' and had demanded that it be declared whether there was a nuclear leak as a result of the collision. Also Read | South China Sea, Indo-Pacific find mention during Indian PM Modi’s meet with ASEAN leaders China claims the entirety of South China Sea as being part of it territorial waters based on the so-called 'nine-dash line'. Chinese assertiveness and even aggressive moves has raised tension in the region. China currently has disputes with Japan and Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam and others over the issue of South China Sea. The US and other western countries have taken a stand against China in South China Sea and have batted for freedom of navigation. US and other navies often carry freedom of navigation exercises in South China Sea eliciting angry reactions from Beijing.

US 'nuke sniffer' plane flies over South China Sea: Report

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

Addressing the leaders via video conferencing, Modi said, “In 2022, our partnership would complete 30 years. India will also complete 75 years of its Independence. I am delighted that we will celebrate this important milestone as ASEAN-India Friendship Year.”

Modi stressed that the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India.

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Addressing the India-ASEAN Summit. <a href="https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A">https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A</a>
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“History is a witness that India and ASEAN have had lively relations for thousands of years. It is reflected in our shared values, traditions, languages, scriptures, architecture, culture, food. That is why the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-participates-in-16th-east-asia-summit-reaffirms-indias-focus-on-a-free-open-inclusive-indo-pacific-424538">PM Modi participates in 16th East Asia Summit, reaffirms India's focus on a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific</a>

Commenting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “Due to COVID19, all of us had to face a lot of challenges. This challenging time was also a test of the India-ASEAN friendship. Our mutual cooperation in COVID-19 era will keep strengthening our relations in the future and form a base for goodwill between our people.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnam-invites-india-for-asean-virtual-summit-in-november-336723">Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November</a>

Later in a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Riva Ganguly Das said PM Modi has invited the ASEAN members to join the Indo Pacific Initiative (IPOI).

“The adoption of the joint statement on ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative is one of the very major highlights of this summit. We have built upon the convergences that exist between the AOIP as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and our own Indo-Pacific initiative IPOI,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asean-increase-people-to-people-engagement-with-1st-ever-hackathon-362978">India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon</a>

“We have the leaders adopted the joint statement and this joint statement charts the way forward for practical implementation of the convergence in a vision of Indo-Pacific. This is the objective to of course to ensure peace, prosperity and stability in the region.”

When she was asked whether issues like the South China Sea and Afghanistan were discussed, Das said, “The East Asia summit exchanged views on the regional and international seas. Highlighting the Afghanistan situation, PM (Modi) talked about the terrorism issue and called for a zero-tolerance to terrorism.”

She said a series of activities will be conducted to commemorate the 30 years of the ASEAN-India partnership.

“The leaders of India and ASEAN have declared the year 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year as it marks 30 years of ASEAN-India partnership. A series of activities will be conducted around the year to commemorate this,” Das said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific. Addressing the leaders via video conferencing, Modi said, “In 2022, our partnership would complete 30 years. India will also complete 75 years of its Independence. I am delighted that we will celebrate this important milestone as ASEAN-India Friendship Year.” Modi stressed that the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India. Addressing the India-ASEAN Summit. https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 28, 2021 × “History is a witness that India and ASEAN have had lively relations for thousands of years. It is reflected in our shared values, traditions, languages, scriptures, architecture, culture, food. That is why the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India,” he said. Also read | PM Modi participates in 16th East Asia Summit, reaffirms India's focus on a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific Commenting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “Due to COVID19, all of us had to face a lot of challenges. This challenging time was also a test of the India-ASEAN friendship. Our mutual cooperation in COVID-19 era will keep strengthening our relations in the future and form a base for goodwill between our people.” Also read | Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November Later in a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Riva Ganguly Das said PM Modi has invited the ASEAN members to join the Indo Pacific Initiative (IPOI). “The adoption of the joint statement on ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative is one of the very major highlights of this summit. We have built upon the convergences that exist between the AOIP as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and our own Indo-Pacific initiative IPOI,” she said. Also read | India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon “We have the leaders adopted the joint statement and this joint statement charts the way forward for practical implementation of the convergence in a vision of Indo-Pacific. This is the objective to of course to ensure peace, prosperity and stability in the region.” When she was asked whether issues like the South China Sea and Afghanistan were discussed, Das said, “The East Asia summit exchanged views on the regional and international seas. Highlighting the Afghanistan situation, PM (Modi) talked about the terrorism issue and called for a zero-tolerance to terrorism.” She said a series of activities will be conducted to commemorate the 30 years of the ASEAN-India partnership. “The leaders of India and ASEAN have declared the year 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year as it marks 30 years of ASEAN-India partnership. A series of activities will be conducted around the year to commemorate this,” Das said. (With inputs from agencies)

South China Sea, Indo-Pacific find mention during Indian PM Modi’s meet with ASEAN leaders

Russian and Chinese warships held their first joint patrols in the Western part of the Pacific ocean on October 17-23, Russia's defence ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

Russian & Chinese navies hold first ever joint patrol

On Thursday (October 22), China's foreign ministry stated that it will not make concessions or compromises on matters concerning its vital interests and sovereignty.

China also advised the United States to exercise caution in Taiwan after President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend the self-ruled island against Chinese assault.&nbsp;

"China has no room for compromise on issues involving its core interests, " foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, warning that Washington "should act and speak cautiously on the Taiwan issue." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-russia-aware-of-us-military-might-will-defend-taiwan-if-beijing-attacks-biden-422795">Also read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden</a> 
 
Earlier, US President Joe Biden said in a CNN town hall meeting that the United States would come to Taiwan's defence if it came under attack by China.

"Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the United States would defend Taiwan if China attacked the country.

He also said that China and Russia know the United States has the most powerful military in the history of the world. 
 
Watch | The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest

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Communist China considers self-ruled Taiwan to be its own territory and has promised to take the island one day, using force if necessary.

Beijing's bellicose rhetoric has increased in recent years, fueling worries that the island of 23 million people could become a major global flashpoint.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday (October 22), China's foreign ministry stated that it will not make concessions or compromises on matters concerning its vital interests and sovereignty.

On Thursday (October 22), China's foreign ministry stated that it will not make concessions or compromises on matters concerning its vital interests and sovereignty. China also advised the United States to exercise caution in Taiwan after President Joe Biden stated that the US would defend the self-ruled island against Chinese assault. "China has no room for compromise on issues involving its core interests, " foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, warning that Washington "should act and speak cautiously on the Taiwan issue." Also read | China, Russia aware of US’ military might, will defend Taiwan if Beijing attacks: Biden Earlier, US President Joe Biden said in a CNN town hall meeting that the United States would come to Taiwan's defence if it came under attack by China. "Yes, we have a commitment to do that," Biden said on Thursday when asked if the United States would defend Taiwan if China attacked the country. He also said that China and Russia know the United States has the most powerful military in the history of the world. Watch | The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest Communist China considers self-ruled Taiwan to be its own territory and has promised to take the island one day, using force if necessary. Beijing's bellicose rhetoric has increased in recent years, fueling worries that the island of 23 million people could become a major global flashpoint. (With inputs from agencies)

'No compromise on sovereignty, act with caution over Taiwan': China warns US

For some decades, China has been intimidating different nations and even its own countrymen in one or the other way. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Be it sea or land, the increasingly aggressive China has been flexing its muscles everywhere. The incursions through land, water or air by the country seems to have become common now. It is one of the big contributors in the disturbance of peace. &nbsp;

Around 17 countries have one or the other territorial disputes with the Asian giant. These include Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan, India, South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, Brunei, Nepal, Bhutan, Laos, Mongolia and Myanmar. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The communist nation seems to have become a nightmare for several countries in regions, such as South China Sea, East China Sea, Indian Sub-continent and around whole of Asia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-talks-fail-to-resolve-issues-at-lac-china-pins-blame-on-india-419801" hreflang="en">After talks fail to resolve issues at LAC, China pins blame on India</a>

In most cases, the country is making unfounded claims and has been persistent to pursue them with all its might in the name of safeguarding its sovereignty. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s rhetoric about some issues has become very common. It has also been indulging in war of words with the US, EU, Australia and other nations. Sanctions and trade wars have become common in its arsenal. &nbsp;

It has also been accused of stealing technology or using its infamous Belt and Road initiative to put nations in debt crisis. Several nations are still facing its brunt. &nbsp;

As if this was not enough, it has been using air shows, regional groupings and other platforms to pursue its veiled agenda. &nbsp;

Not just in the rest of the world, its ruling Chinese Communist Party has been making all-out efforts to ensure the citizens live under tight control of the regime. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Several guidelines, regarding playing games, cartoons, internet usage, etc have come up or are in the making. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It has also been hell-bent to crackdown on several big companies of the country in the name of different regulations.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-conducts-beach-landing-drills-near-taiwan-419963" hreflang="en">Chinese military conducts beach landing drills near Taiwan</a> &nbsp;

The worst affected due to the high-handedness are the people of Hong Kong as there has been no change in the situation even after so many protests in the city. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Several people of the city are either living in fear or making arrangements to leave the country. &nbsp;

In a nutshell, all of these actions of the Chinese Communist Party seem to be a way to tighten its grip on power. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Only time will tell, when the Chinese intimidation will stop in all corners of the world. &nbsp;

Let’s see when the country’s rulers learn to live in peace and work for the common god of the world, which is the very basis of communism. Well, the whole notion of communism seems to have been lost now.&nbsp;

For some decades, China has been intimidating different nations and even its own countrymen in one or the other way. Be it sea or land, the increasingly aggressive China has been flexing its muscles everywhere.

For some decades, China has been intimidating different nations and even its own countrymen in one or the other way. Be it sea or land, the increasingly aggressive China has been flexing its muscles everywhere. The incursions through land, water or air by the country seems to have become common now. It is one of the big contributors in the disturbance of peace. Around 17 countries have one or the other territorial disputes with the Asian giant. These include Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan, India, South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, Brunei, Nepal, Bhutan, Laos, Mongolia and Myanmar. The communist nation seems to have become a nightmare for several countries in regions, such as South China Sea, East China Sea, Indian Sub-continent and around whole of Asia. Also Read: After talks fail to resolve issues at LAC, China pins blame on India In most cases, the country is making unfounded claims and has been persistent to pursue them with all its might in the name of safeguarding its sovereignty. It’s rhetoric about some issues has become very common. It has also been indulging in war of words with the US, EU, Australia and other nations. Sanctions and trade wars have become common in its arsenal. It has also been accused of stealing technology or using its infamous Belt and Road initiative to put nations in debt crisis. Several nations are still facing its brunt. As if this was not enough, it has been using air shows, regional groupings and other platforms to pursue its veiled agenda. Not just in the rest of the world, its ruling Chinese Communist Party has been making all-out efforts to ensure the citizens live under tight control of the regime. Several guidelines, regarding playing games, cartoons, internet usage, etc have come up or are in the making. It has also been hell-bent to crackdown on several big companies of the country in the name of different regulations. Also Read: Chinese military conducts beach landing drills near Taiwan The worst affected due to the high-handedness are the people of Hong Kong as there has been no change in the situation even after so many protests in the city. Several people of the city are either living in fear or making arrangements to leave the country. In a nutshell, all of these actions of the Chinese Communist Party seem to be a way to tighten its grip on power. Only time will tell, when the Chinese intimidation will stop in all corners of the world. Let’s see when the country’s rulers learn to live in peace and work for the common god of the world, which is the very basis of communism. Well, the whole notion of communism seems to have been lost now.

Filled with oppression, can China ever learn to live in peace?

In Pics: All the countries with which China is in a territorial dispute

For at least one year now, a small group of American soldiers have been stationed in Taiwan. What's their mission? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: What are American soldiers doing in Taiwan?

A US Navy nuclear submarine hit an underwater, unidentified object while in South China Sea, as per news reports. However, the US Navy has chosen to say that the submarine was in 'Asia-Pacific region' when the incident took place.

The USS Connecticut, a nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine, "struck an object while submerged on the afternoon of Oct. 2, while operating in international waters in the Indo-Pacific region," the navy said in a statement as well as in tweet.

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Statement regarding <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USSConnecticut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USSConnecticut</a> (SSN 22): 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USNavy</a> Seawolf-class fast-attack submarine struck an object while submerged on Oct. 2, while operating in international waters in the Indo-Pacific region. There are no life threatening injuries. 
 
More: <a href="https://t.co/2ojR5arcd4">https://t.co/2ojR5arcd4</a> <a href="https://t.co/VNSQI5XJet">pic.twitter.com/VNSQI5XJet</a>
— U.S. Pacific Fleet (@USPacificFleet) <a href="https://twitter.com/USPacificFleet/status/1446189911686582313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The navy said that there were no life-threatening injuries. USNI News, a site that specialises in navy news, said that about a dozen soldiers were hurt "with moderate to minor injuries." USNI News also said that the submarine was operating in South China Sea.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-troops-secretly-training-taiwanese-since-last-year-report-418966">US troops secretly training Taiwanese since last year: Report</a>

The navy said the extent of the damage is being examined and the incident investigated.&nbsp;

"The submarine remains in a safe and stable condition. USS Connecticut’s nuclear propulsion plant and spaces were not affected and remain fully operational," it said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-expels-eight-russians-from-its-mission-claiming-they-were-working-as-intelligence-officers-418899">NATO expels eight Russians from its mission, claiming they were working as intelligence officers</a>

South China Sea is the theatre witnessing increasingly assertive moves by China who claims that the entire water body comes within its territorial waters. The claim has been made using the so-called 'nine-dash line'. China has been building artificial islands and runways in South China Sea and has been assertively contesting claims by other smaller nations in the region. China faces international criticism for not allowing freedom of navigation in South China Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US Navy nuclear submarine hit an underwater, unidentified object while in South China Sea, as per news reports. However, the US Navy has chosen to say that the submarine was in 'Asia-Pacific region' when the incident took place.

A US Navy nuclear submarine hit an underwater, unidentified object while in South China Sea, as per news reports. However, the US Navy has chosen to say that the submarine was in 'Asia-Pacific region' when the incident took place. The USS Connecticut, a nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine, "struck an object while submerged on the afternoon of Oct. 2, while operating in international waters in the Indo-Pacific region," the navy said in a statement as well as in tweet. Statement regarding #USSConnecticut (SSN 22): The #USNavy Seawolf-class fast-attack submarine struck an object while submerged on Oct. 2, while operating in international waters in the Indo-Pacific region. There are no life threatening injuries. More: https://t.co/2ojR5arcd4 pic.twitter.com/VNSQI5XJet — U.S. Pacific Fleet (@USPacificFleet) October 7, 2021 × The navy said that there were no life-threatening injuries. USNI News, a site that specialises in navy news, said that about a dozen soldiers were hurt "with moderate to minor injuries." USNI News also said that the submarine was operating in South China Sea. Also Read | US troops secretly training Taiwanese since last year: Report The navy said the extent of the damage is being examined and the incident investigated. "The submarine remains in a safe and stable condition. USS Connecticut’s nuclear propulsion plant and spaces were not affected and remain fully operational," it said. Also Read | NATO expels eight Russians from its mission, claiming they were working as intelligence officers South China Sea is the theatre witnessing increasingly assertive moves by China who claims that the entire water body comes within its territorial waters. The claim has been made using the so-called 'nine-dash line'. China has been building artificial islands and runways in South China Sea and has been assertively contesting claims by other smaller nations in the region. China faces international criticism for not allowing freedom of navigation in South China Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

US Navy nuclear submarine hits underwater 'object' in South China Sea: Report

After Chinese vessels ventured into Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea off the island of Borneo, Kuala Lumpur has summoned Beijing’s ambassador to protest against the “presence and activities” of the vessels. &nbsp;

The vessels, which include a survey boat, were present off the coasts of the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-world-witnessing-multiple-cold-wars-418374" hreflang="en">Is the world witnessing multiple cold wars?</a>&nbsp;

In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, the action is in contravention of 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The statement has not elaborated on the number of ships involved or when the incident took place. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Malaysia’s consistent position and actions are based on international law, in defence of our sovereignty and sovereign rights in our waters. It had also protested against the previous encroachments by other foreign vessels in our waters,” it said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-56-warplanes-into-taiwans-defence-zone-in-largest-ever-air-incursion-418264" hreflang="en">China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone in largest-ever air incursion</a>&nbsp;

The China has been militarising the region by allegedly deploying anti-ship cruise missiles, anti-aircraft guns, surface-to-air missiles and electronic jamming equipment on the disputed artificial islands in the South China Sea. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chinese have also been carrying out military drills in the region. They have been making all attempts to protect its occupation of these islands. For this, it has been sending its vessels to the area in large number to either terrorise other navies or sink the fishing vessels to discourage people from venturing into the area. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

After Chinese vessels ventured into Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea off the island of Borneo, Kuala Lumpur has summoned Beijing’s ambassador to protest against the “presence and activities” of the vessels.

After Chinese vessels ventured into Malaysia’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea off the island of Borneo, Kuala Lumpur has summoned Beijing’s ambassador to protest against the “presence and activities” of the vessels. The vessels, which include a survey boat, were present off the coasts of the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Also Read: Is the world witnessing multiple cold wars? In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, the action is in contravention of 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The statement has not elaborated on the number of ships involved or when the incident took place. “Malaysia’s consistent position and actions are based on international law, in defence of our sovereignty and sovereign rights in our waters. It had also protested against the previous encroachments by other foreign vessels in our waters,” it said. Also Read: China sends 56 warplanes into Taiwan's defence zone in largest-ever air incursion The China has been militarising the region by allegedly deploying anti-ship cruise missiles, anti-aircraft guns, surface-to-air missiles and electronic jamming equipment on the disputed artificial islands in the South China Sea. The Chinese have also been carrying out military drills in the region. They have been making all attempts to protect its occupation of these islands. For this, it has been sending its vessels to the area in large number to either terrorise other navies or sink the fishing vessels to discourage people from venturing into the area. (With inputs from agencies)

South China Sea: Malaysia summons Chinese envoy after Beijing’s vessels enter EEZ

In the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the South China seas, Japan and Vietnam signed a new defence deal for the transfer of Japanese-made defence equipment and technology to Hanoi.

The accord was inked in Hanoi on Saturday during Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi’s first trip overseas after assuming the post last year.

Japan will speed up talks with Vietnam to sell Self-Defence Forces’ vessels, Kishi said in an online press conference, following a meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang.

Vietnam, one of the key members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is reportedly the 11th country to sign such an agreement with Japan, at a time when China growing military influence in the Southeast Asian region.

Vietnam has territorial disputes with China over the Spratly and Paracel island groups in the South China Sea.

Watch

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Japan and China are also embroiled in a territorial dispute, with Tokyo regularly protesting against the Chinese coastguard’s presence in the East China Sea near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku islands, which Beijing also claims and calls Diaoyu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-a-stronger-military-presence-in-asia-to-tackle-china-japan-urges-european-nations-392843">Have a stronger military presence in Asia to tackle China: Japan urges European nations</a>

Japanese officials say Chinese vessels routinely violate Japanese territorial waters around the islands, sometimes threatening fishing boats.

Vietnam has strong defence ties with Russia and relies on it for most of its equipment, including submarines and fighter jets, as it was part of the former Communist bloc during the Cold War.

Tokyo is also looking to expand military cooperation beyond its longtime ally, the United States, and has signed similar agreements with the United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia.

“The accord will strengthen Japan’s defence industrial base and is expected to contribute to the country's security," Kishi was quoted by local news outlets in Hanoi.

He added they agreed to work together for a rules-based order and reaffirmed the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as to abide by international law, in a veiled counter against Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the South China seas, Japan and Vietnam signed a new defence deal for the transfer of Japanese-made defence equipment and technology to Hanoi.

In the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the South China seas, Japan and Vietnam signed a new defence deal for the transfer of Japanese-made defence equipment and technology to Hanoi. The accord was inked in Hanoi on Saturday during Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi’s first trip overseas after assuming the post last year. Japan will speed up talks with Vietnam to sell Self-Defence Forces’ vessels, Kishi said in an online press conference, following a meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang. Vietnam, one of the key members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is reportedly the 11th country to sign such an agreement with Japan, at a time when China growing military influence in the Southeast Asian region. Vietnam has territorial disputes with China over the Spratly and Paracel island groups in the South China Sea. Watch Japan and China are also embroiled in a territorial dispute, with Tokyo regularly protesting against the Chinese coastguard’s presence in the East China Sea near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku islands, which Beijing also claims and calls Diaoyu. Also read | Have a stronger military presence in Asia to tackle China: Japan urges European nations Japanese officials say Chinese vessels routinely violate Japanese territorial waters around the islands, sometimes threatening fishing boats. Vietnam has strong defence ties with Russia and relies on it for most of its equipment, including submarines and fighter jets, as it was part of the former Communist bloc during the Cold War. Tokyo is also looking to expand military cooperation beyond its longtime ally, the United States, and has signed similar agreements with the United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia. “The accord will strengthen Japan’s defence industrial base and is expected to contribute to the country's security," Kishi was quoted by local news outlets in Hanoi. He added they agreed to work together for a rules-based order and reaffirmed the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as to abide by international law, in a veiled counter against Beijing. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan, Vietnam ink defence transfer deal amid China’s growing assertiveness in disputed regions

According to the British Defense Ministry statement, two<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-provocations-like-british-warship-incident-demand-tough-response-395766"> naval patrol ships</a> left the United Kingdom on a five-year deployment in its mission to patrol the Pacific and Indian Ocean.

The UK defence ministry said it will act as the "eyes and ears of the Navy" and the country and will work "alongside Britain's allies, carrying out security patrols to deal with drug-running, smuggling and terrorism".

The Royal Navy ships will also carry out joint naval exercises with other navies and armed forces, the ministry added.

Watch:

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Two months ago Britain's defence minister Ben Wallace and his Japanese counterpart Nobuo Kishi had a meeting in which UK's defence minister had said the country will permanently assign two ships in the&nbsp;Asia Pacific region later this year.

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Clear your diaries! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamTamar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamTamar</a> is about to deploy for the Royal Navy's enduring mission to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAP</a>. We are leading the way and promoting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GlobalBritain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GlobalBritain</a>. Witness our spectacular departure tomorrow in accordance with the QHM website. (<a href="https://t.co/78GdRGIky4">https://t.co/78GdRGIky4</a>) 🦁⚓️🇬🇧 <a href="https://t.co/UqhCEBGFaI">pic.twitter.com/UqhCEBGFaI</a>
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The move comes as China continues to ensure movement of its navy in the South China Sea. Britain's Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier and escort ships are expected to sail to Japan in September. According to Japan's defence minister Nobuo Kishi, the ships will be deployed in the US and Japanese naval bases in the country.

China however had hit out at UK's move in an editorial in state-run newspaper Global Times warning that it will defend "its sovereignty and territorial integrity". China said the ships should remain "at least 12 nautical miles away from the Chinese islands and reefs."

However, the UK ministry of defence shot back saying the "carrier strike group is lawfully navigating the South China Sea, just as one-third of global shipping does on an annual basis".

"It is taking the most direct route through international waters to conduct exercises with allies and partners in the Philippine Sea," it added.

UK's HMS Queen Elizabeth had earlier coordinated exercises with the navies from India, Singapore and Malaysia.

"We are not going to go to the other side of the world to be provocative," UK's defence ministry said, adding, "We will be confident, but not confrontational."

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to the British Defense Ministry statement, two naval patrol ships left the United Kingdom on a five-year deployment in its mission to patrol the Pacific and Indian Ocean.

According to the British Defense Ministry statement, two naval patrol ships left the United Kingdom on a five-year deployment in its mission to patrol the Pacific and Indian Ocean. The UK defence ministry said it will act as the "eyes and ears of the Navy" and the country and will work "alongside Britain's allies, carrying out security patrols to deal with drug-running, smuggling and terrorism". The Royal Navy ships will also carry out joint naval exercises with other navies and armed forces, the ministry added. Watch: Two months ago Britain's defence minister Ben Wallace and his Japanese counterpart Nobuo Kishi had a meeting in which UK's defence minister had said the country will permanently assign two ships in the Asia Pacific region later this year. Clear your diaries! #TeamTamar is about to deploy for the Royal Navy's enduring mission to the #IAP. We are leading the way and promoting #GlobalBritain. Witness our spectacular departure tomorrow in accordance with the QHM website. (https://t.co/78GdRGIky4) 🦁⚓️🇬🇧 pic.twitter.com/UqhCEBGFaI — HMS Tamar (@hms_tamar) September 6, 2021 × The move comes as China continues to ensure movement of its navy in the South China Sea. Britain's Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier and escort ships are expected to sail to Japan in September. According to Japan's defence minister Nobuo Kishi, the ships will be deployed in the US and Japanese naval bases in the country. China however had hit out at UK's move in an editorial in state-run newspaper Global Times warning that it will defend "its sovereignty and territorial integrity". China said the ships should remain "at least 12 nautical miles away from the Chinese islands and reefs." However, the UK ministry of defence shot back saying the "carrier strike group is lawfully navigating the South China Sea, just as one-third of global shipping does on an annual basis". "It is taking the most direct route through international waters to conduct exercises with allies and partners in the Philippine Sea," it added. UK's HMS Queen Elizabeth had earlier coordinated exercises with the navies from India, Singapore and Malaysia. "We are not going to go to the other side of the world to be provocative," UK's defence ministry said, adding, "We will be confident, but not confrontational." (With inputs from Agencies)

UK to send warships to Pacific on extended deployment

US Vice President Kamala Harris on a visit to Singapore said Beijing continues to "coerce and intimidate" and "make claims to the vast majority of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-consequences-us-china-clash-at-un-over-south-china-sea-row-404416">South China Sea</a>."

"Beijing's actions continue to undermine the rules-based order and threaten the sovereignty of nations," Harris said as China immediately hit back accusing US of "bullying, hegemonic behaviour".

"The current events in Afghanistan clearly tell us what the rules and order the US speaks of are," China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.

Watch:

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The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman added that the order that the US was speaking about included "wilfully slander, oppress, coerce and bully other countries and not have to pay any price".

"This is the order the US wants... but who will believe them now? it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eye-on-china-kamala-harris-vows-us-will-pursue-a-free-and-open-indo-pacific-407925">Harris </a>will be stopping over in Vietnam in a trip intended to reset ties with countries with the Biden administration intent on deepening ties with countries in Southeast Asia amid China's growing influence in the region.

China claims several islands in the South China Sea despite disputes with other Southeast Asian nations including Taiwan.

Harris announced that the US put forward its proposal to host the 2023 APEC meeting which also includes China.

"Our engagement in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific is not against any one country, nor is it designed to make anyone choose between countries," Harris said amid deteriorating ties with China in the region.

Harris will head to Vietnam on Tuesday. The US vice president defended President Biden's decision to pull out of Afghanistan asserting that the United States has been focused on "safely evacuating American citizens" including "Afghans who worked side by side with us, and other Afghans at risk".

(With inputs from Agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris on a visit to Singapore said Beijing continues to "coerce and intimidate" and "make claims to the vast majority of the South China Sea.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on a visit to Singapore said Beijing continues to "coerce and intimidate" and "make claims to the vast majority of the South China Sea." "Beijing's actions continue to undermine the rules-based order and threaten the sovereignty of nations," Harris said as China immediately hit back accusing US of "bullying, hegemonic behaviour". "The current events in Afghanistan clearly tell us what the rules and order the US speaks of are," China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said. Watch: The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman added that the order that the US was speaking about included "wilfully slander, oppress, coerce and bully other countries and not have to pay any price". "This is the order the US wants... but who will believe them now? it added. Harris will be stopping over in Vietnam in a trip intended to reset ties with countries with the Biden administration intent on deepening ties with countries in Southeast Asia amid China's growing influence in the region. China claims several islands in the South China Sea despite disputes with other Southeast Asian nations including Taiwan. Harris announced that the US put forward its proposal to host the 2023 APEC meeting which also includes China. "Our engagement in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific is not against any one country, nor is it designed to make anyone choose between countries," Harris said amid deteriorating ties with China in the region. Harris will head to Vietnam on Tuesday. The US vice president defended President Biden's decision to pull out of Afghanistan asserting that the United States has been focused on "safely evacuating American citizens" including "Afghans who worked side by side with us, and other Afghans at risk". (With inputs from Agencies)

US bullies other countries, who will believe them now? China hits back at Harris over Afghanistan

Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;leader is currently on&nbsp;a trip to Singapore.&nbsp;During the visit, Harris will meet&nbsp;Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Watch: US Vice Prez Kamala Harris visits Singapore to strengthen ties, counter China's influence

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The trip to Southeast Asia looks to bolster ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence.

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;Vice President will also visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US Navy later.&nbsp;Harris is on a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam.

Also read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/at-risk-afghans-us-grapples-with-august-31-evacuation-deadline-407919">'At risk' Afghans: US grapples with August 31 evacuation deadline</a>

Even as Singapore is not a US treaty ally, it remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties.&nbsp;It aims to balance its relationships with both the United States and China by not taking sides.

As per a report released by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US Congress,&nbsp;in April,&nbsp;"Singapore has encouraged greater US engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive. It has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US retrenchment."

(With inputs from agencies)

Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea, US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea, US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific. The US leader is currently on a trip to Singapore. During the visit, Harris will meet Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Watch: US Vice Prez Kamala Harris visits Singapore to strengthen ties, counter China's influence × The trip to Southeast Asia looks to bolster ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. The US Vice President will also visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US Navy later. Harris is on a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam. Also read | 'At risk' Afghans: US grapples with August 31 evacuation deadline Even as Singapore is not a US treaty ally, it remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties. It aims to balance its relationships with both the United States and China by not taking sides. As per a report released by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US Congress, in April, "Singapore has encouraged greater US engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive. It has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US retrenchment." (With inputs from agencies)

Eye on China: Kamala Harris vows US will pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific

Senior officials from Quad nations, the US, India, Australia and Japan, have discussed ways to advance ongoing cooperation in various areas of mutual interest, including strengthening international institutions including the UN, promoting democracy and human rights and supporting countries vulnerable to "coercive actions" in the Indo-Pacific region.

The officials of the four nations met virtually on Thursday as part of regular Quad consultations to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific region, the US State Department said in a statement.

This meeting sought to build on and implement the historic discussions held between US President Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Prime Minister Modi, and Japanese Premier Suga during the inaugural Quad Leaders’ Summit on March 12, 2021.

They welcomed the opportunity to continue regular consultations at the ministerial, senior official, and working levels and to hold a second Leaders’ Summit this fall, the statement said.

The four countries had in 2017 given shape to the long-pending proposal of setting up the "Quad" or the Quadrilateral coalition to counter China's aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific region.

"The four democracies acknowledged that global security and prosperity depends on the region remaining inclusive, resilient, and healthy," the statement said.

"The officials examined ways to advance ongoing cooperation on numerous topics of mutual interest, including strategic challenges confronting the region, countering disinformation, promoting democracy and human rights, strengthening international institutions including the United Nations and related organisations, and supporting countries vulnerable to coercive actions in the Indo-Pacific region," it said.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in the South and East China Seas. Beijing has also made substantial progress in militarising its man-made islands in the past few years.

Beijing claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea. But Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, and Taiwan have counterclaims. In the East China Sea, China has territorial disputes with Japan.

The officials of the Quad nations during Thursday's meeting also discussed the importance of sustained international cooperation to end the COVID-19 pandemic in the Indo-Pacific and to promote economic recovery, the statement said.

The senior officials discussed the importance of peace and security in the Taiwan Strait, the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, and reaffirmed the Quad’s strong support for ASEAN centrality and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.

Japanese Foreign Ministry in a statement said the officials concurred on further advancing practical cooperation among the four countries on quality infrastructure, maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber-security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief toward the achievement of a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”

The officials welcomed the fact that a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” is a vision for the peace and prosperity of the region and its importance in the post-COVID world is increasing and that this vision has spread in the international community, including ASEAN and Europe.

They reaffirmed the importance of broadening cooperation with more countries for its further achievement.

The officials reaffirmed their strong support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality as well as the ASEAN-led regional architecture, and their full support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

The officials shared the view on continuing regular consultations and on coordinating to hold an in-person summit by the end of this year, in addition to holding a Foreign Minister’s meeting at least once a year, as concurred by the four leaders at the March Leaders’ Video Conference.

Vani Rao, Joint Secretary (Americas) and Naveen Srivastava, Additional Secretary (East Asia), from the Ministry of External Affairs represented India at the meeting.

Senior officials from Quad nations, the US, India, Australia and Japan, have discussed ways to advance ongoing cooperation in various areas of mutual interest, including strengthening international institutions including the UN, promoting democracy and human rights and supporting countries vulnerable to "coercive actions" in the Indo-Pacific region.

Senior officials from Quad nations, the US, India, Australia and Japan, have discussed ways to advance ongoing cooperation in various areas of mutual interest, including strengthening international institutions including the UN, promoting democracy and human rights and supporting countries vulnerable to "coercive actions" in the Indo-Pacific region. The officials of the four nations met virtually on Thursday as part of regular Quad consultations to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific region, the US State Department said in a statement. This meeting sought to build on and implement the historic discussions held between US President Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Prime Minister Modi, and Japanese Premier Suga during the inaugural Quad Leaders’ Summit on March 12, 2021. They welcomed the opportunity to continue regular consultations at the ministerial, senior official, and working levels and to hold a second Leaders’ Summit this fall, the statement said. The four countries had in 2017 given shape to the long-pending proposal of setting up the "Quad" or the Quadrilateral coalition to counter China's aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific region. "The four democracies acknowledged that global security and prosperity depends on the region remaining inclusive, resilient, and healthy," the statement said. "The officials examined ways to advance ongoing cooperation on numerous topics of mutual interest, including strategic challenges confronting the region, countering disinformation, promoting democracy and human rights, strengthening international institutions including the United Nations and related organisations, and supporting countries vulnerable to coercive actions in the Indo-Pacific region," it said. China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in the South and East China Seas. Beijing has also made substantial progress in militarising its man-made islands in the past few years. Beijing claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea. But Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, and Taiwan have counterclaims. In the East China Sea, China has territorial disputes with Japan. The officials of the Quad nations during Thursday's meeting also discussed the importance of sustained international cooperation to end the COVID-19 pandemic in the Indo-Pacific and to promote economic recovery, the statement said. The senior officials discussed the importance of peace and security in the Taiwan Strait, the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, and reaffirmed the Quad’s strong support for ASEAN centrality and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. Japanese Foreign Ministry in a statement said the officials concurred on further advancing practical cooperation among the four countries on quality infrastructure, maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber-security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief toward the achievement of a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” The officials welcomed the fact that a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” is a vision for the peace and prosperity of the region and its importance in the post-COVID world is increasing and that this vision has spread in the international community, including ASEAN and Europe. They reaffirmed the importance of broadening cooperation with more countries for its further achievement. The officials reaffirmed their strong support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality as well as the ASEAN-led regional architecture, and their full support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). The officials shared the view on continuing regular consultations and on coordinating to hold an in-person summit by the end of this year, in addition to holding a Foreign Minister’s meeting at least once a year, as concurred by the four leaders at the March Leaders’ Video Conference. Vani Rao, Joint Secretary (Americas) and Naveen Srivastava, Additional Secretary (East Asia), from the Ministry of External Affairs represented India at the meeting.

Quad nations discuss ways to advance cooperation in areas of mutual interest including Indo Pacific region

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious&nbsp;global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from&nbsp;China.

The South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-world-coming-together-against-china-in-south-china-sea-374136">Is World coming together against China in South China Sea?</a>

"Conflict in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, or in any ocean, would have serious&nbsp;global consequences for security, and for commerce," Blinken told a Security Council meeting on maritime security. "When a state faces no consequences for ignoring these rules, it fuels greater impunity and instability everywhere."

China&nbsp;claims vast swaths of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields.

"We have seen dangerous&nbsp;encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims," said Blinken, adding that Washington was concerned by actions that "intimidate and bully other states from lawfully accessing their maritime resources."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-at-stake-for-india-in-south-china-sea-372397">What is at stake for India in South China Sea?</a>

China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing accused the United States of "stirring up trouble out nothing, arbitrarily sending advanced military vessels and aircraft into the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea as provocations and publicly trying to drive a wedge into regional countries."

"This country itself has become the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea," Dai said.

Blinken said it was the responsibility of all countries, not just claimants to the islands and waters of the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, to defend the rules they had all agreed to follow to peacefully resolve maritime disputes.

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South China Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from China.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South China Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from China. The South China Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between China and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters. Also read | Is World coming together against China in South China Sea? "Conflict in the South China Sea, or in any ocean, would have serious global consequences for security, and for commerce," Blinken told a Security Council meeting on maritime security. "When a state faces no consequences for ignoring these rules, it fuels greater impunity and instability everywhere." China claims vast swaths of the South China Sea which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields. "We have seen dangerous encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims," said Blinken, adding that Washington was concerned by actions that "intimidate and bully other states from lawfully accessing their maritime resources." Also read | What is at stake for India in South China Sea? China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing accused the United States of "stirring up trouble out nothing, arbitrarily sending advanced military vessels and aircraft into the South China Sea as provocations and publicly trying to drive a wedge into regional countries." "This country itself has become the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South China Sea," Dai said. Blinken said it was the responsibility of all countries, not just claimants to the islands and waters of the South China Sea, to defend the rules they had all agreed to follow to peacefully resolve maritime disputes.

US, China trade barbs at UN over South China Sea

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South China Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from China.

The South China Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between China and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters.

"Conflict in the South China Sea, or in any ocean, would have serious global consequences for security, and for commerce," Blinken told a Security Council meeting on maritime security. "When a state faces no consequences for ignoring these rules, it fuels greater impunity and instability everywhere."

China claims vast swaths of the South China Sea which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields.

"We have seen dangerous encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims," said Blinken, adding that Washington was concerned by actions that "intimidate and bully other states from lawfully accessing their maritime resources."

China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing accused the United States of "stirring up trouble out nothing, arbitrarily sending advanced military vessels and aircraft into the South China Sea as provocations and publicly trying to drive a wedge into regional countries."

"This country itself has become the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South China Sea," Dai said.

Blinken said it was the responsibility of all countries, not just claimants to the islands and waters of the South China Sea, to defend the rules they had all agreed to follow to peacefully resolve maritime disputes.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out bullying in the South China Sea on Monday and warned the UN Security Council that a conflict "would have serious global consequences for security and for commerce," sparking a strong rebuke from China. The South China Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between China and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters. "Conflict in the South China Sea, or in any ocean, would have serious global consequences for security, and for commerce," Blinken told a Security Council meeting on maritime security. "When a state faces no consequences for ignoring these rules, it fuels greater impunity and instability everywhere." China claims vast swaths of the South China Sea which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines. Trillions of dollars in trade flow every year through the waterway, which also contains rich fishing grounds and gas fields. "We have seen dangerous encounters between vessels at sea and provocative actions to advance unlawful maritime claims," said Blinken, adding that Washington was concerned by actions that "intimidate and bully other states from lawfully accessing their maritime resources." China's deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing accused the United States of "stirring up trouble out nothing, arbitrarily sending advanced military vessels and aircraft into the South China Sea as provocations and publicly trying to drive a wedge into regional countries." "This country itself has become the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South China Sea," Dai said. Blinken said it was the responsibility of all countries, not just claimants to the islands and waters of the South China Sea, to defend the rules they had all agreed to follow to peacefully resolve maritime disputes.

'Global consequences': US, China clash at UN over South China Sea row

As the US and Indonesian military personnel began joint drills as part of Garuda Shield exercises, China announced it will hold military exercises from Friday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-china-tussle-continues-in-south-china-sea-399171">South China Sea</a>.

China's state-run Global Times said the Chinese military has set up vast navigation restriction zone with the exclusion zone stretching from waters off the southeast of Hainan Island to Xisha Islands.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-warships-in-the-south-china-sea-403275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Global times quoting other media agencies said PLA launched anti-ship ballistic missiles in the South China Sea similar to last year.

Meanwhile, US and Indonesian military have been conducting drills in Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi amid the coronavirus pandemic sweeping Indonesia.

The training being conducted includes live fire drills. It is reportedly the largest military exercise between&nbsp;the two countries. Earlier this week Germany had dispatched its frigate&nbsp;"Bayern" sailed from Wilhelmshaven harbour to the Indo-Pacific and will cruise&nbsp;through Singapore, South Korea&nbsp;and Australia.&nbsp;

The German ship will also reportedly take part in EU's Atalanta anti-piracy mission in east Africa.

China claims the majority of the islands in the South China Sea even as the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam also stake equal claim to the resource-rich islands.

UK had earlier sent its flotilla led by the new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth and other vessels to the South China Sea as the state-run Global Times criticised the move.

However, Britain said the carrier strike group is lawfully navigating the South China Sea.

"It is taking the most direct route through international waters to conduct exercises with allies and partners in the Philippine Sea," UK's defence ministry said.

According to the UK, HMS Spey and HMS Tamar will start a permanent deployment to the Asia-Pacific region next month.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the US and Indonesian military personnel began joint drills as part of Garuda Shield exercises, China announced it will hold military exercises from Friday in the South China Sea.

As the US and Indonesian military personnel began joint drills as part of Garuda Shield exercises, China announced it will hold military exercises from Friday in the South China Sea. China's state-run Global Times said the Chinese military has set up vast navigation restriction zone with the exclusion zone stretching from waters off the southeast of Hainan Island to Xisha Islands. Watch: Global times quoting other media agencies said PLA launched anti-ship ballistic missiles in the South China Sea similar to last year. Meanwhile, US and Indonesian military have been conducting drills in Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi amid the coronavirus pandemic sweeping Indonesia. The training being conducted includes live fire drills. It is reportedly the largest military exercise between the two countries. Earlier this week Germany had dispatched its frigate "Bayern" sailed from Wilhelmshaven harbour to the Indo-Pacific and will cruise through Singapore, South Korea and Australia. The German ship will also reportedly take part in EU's Atalanta anti-piracy mission in east Africa. China claims the majority of the islands in the South China Sea even as the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam also stake equal claim to the resource-rich islands. UK had earlier sent its flotilla led by the new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth and other vessels to the South China Sea as the state-run Global Times criticised the move. However, Britain said the carrier strike group is lawfully navigating the South China Sea. "It is taking the most direct route through international waters to conduct exercises with allies and partners in the Philippine Sea," UK's defence ministry said. According to the UK, HMS Spey and HMS Tamar will start a permanent deployment to the Asia-Pacific region next month. (With inputs from Agencies)

China to hold military exercises in South China Sea

India has deployed 4 warships to the South China Sea as part of its 'Act East' policy. The ships will join forces with the QUAD navies for a military drill in the Indo-Pacific. Is this India's stamp of authority on the maritime conflict?

Gravitas: Indian warships in the South China Sea

Nanning: How China's new warship with anti-stealth radar is set to change balance in South China Sea

India stressed on Wednesday that the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be fully consistent with the relevant UN convention and that the negotiations on it should not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of the nations that are not a party to the discussions.

In a virtual address at a meeting of the East Asia Summit (EAS), External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also highlighted the growing convergence of approaches on the Indo-Pacific region among different members of the grouping.

Separately, Jaishankar also addressed a meeting of the ASEAN-India foreign ministers during which he touched upon a range of issues, including connectivity, and said India is looking forward to an early review of the "trade-in goods agreement".

"Stressed that Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be fully consistent with UNCLOS 1982.

Should not prejudice legitimate rights and interests of nations not a party to discussions," Jaishankar tweeted about his meeting with the foreign ministers of the EAS member countries.

China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons.

However, several ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei, have counterclaims.

India has been pitching for a rules-based order in the region, including through upholding adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).

In his address at the EAS meeting, Jaishankar also supported the "ASEAN five-point" consensus on Myanmar and welcomed the appointment of a special envoy.

The external affairs minister also spoke about the growing COVID-19 challenge faced by ASEAN and conveyed India's support and solidarity.

Jaishankar described the discussions at the ASEAN meeting as "substantive and fruitful".

In a series of tweets, he said much of India's interests and relationships now lie to its east, which is a testimony of its ties with the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).

The external affairs minister also emphasised accelerating connectivity projects and particularly talked about the trilateral highway and Kaladan projects.

The ambitious India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway is expected to boost connectivity among the three countries.

The Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project is being viewed as India's gateway to Southeast Asia.

Jaishankar also sought convergence between the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) proposed by India.

On the coronavirus pandemic, he said India and ASEAN are "strong partners in Covid response: medicines or oxygen, equipment or logistics".

Jaishankar also proposed 2022 as the ASEAN-India friendship year for the 30th anniversary of the ties between the two sides.

The ASEAN is considered to be one of the most influential groupings in the region, and India and several other countries including the US, China, Japan and Australia are its dialogue partners.

The ties between India and the ASEAN have been on an upswing in the last few years with the focus being on ramping up cooperation in the areas of trade and investment as well as security and defence.

The EAS is the premier forum in the Asia-Pacific region to deal with issues relating to security and defence.

Since its inception in 2005, it has played a significant role in the strategic, geopolitical and economic evolution of East Asia.

Apart from the 10 ASEAN member states, the EAS includes India, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia.

India stressed on Wednesday that the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be fully consistent with the relevant UN convention and that the negotiations on it should not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of the nations that are not a party to the discussions.

India stressed on Wednesday that the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be fully consistent with the relevant UN convention and that the negotiations on it should not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of the nations that are not a party to the discussions. In a virtual address at a meeting of the East Asia Summit (EAS), External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also highlighted the growing convergence of approaches on the Indo-Pacific region among different members of the grouping. Separately, Jaishankar also addressed a meeting of the ASEAN-India foreign ministers during which he touched upon a range of issues, including connectivity, and said India is looking forward to an early review of the "trade-in goods agreement". "Stressed that Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be fully consistent with UNCLOS 1982. Should not prejudice legitimate rights and interests of nations not a party to discussions," Jaishankar tweeted about his meeting with the foreign ministers of the EAS member countries. China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons. However, several ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei, have counterclaims. India has been pitching for a rules-based order in the region, including through upholding adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea). In his address at the EAS meeting, Jaishankar also supported the "ASEAN five-point" consensus on Myanmar and welcomed the appointment of a special envoy. The external affairs minister also spoke about the growing COVID-19 challenge faced by ASEAN and conveyed India's support and solidarity. Jaishankar described the discussions at the ASEAN meeting as "substantive and fruitful". In a series of tweets, he said much of India's interests and relationships now lie to its east, which is a testimony of its ties with the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). The external affairs minister also emphasised accelerating connectivity projects and particularly talked about the trilateral highway and Kaladan projects. The ambitious India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway is expected to boost connectivity among the three countries. The Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project is being viewed as India's gateway to Southeast Asia. Jaishankar also sought convergence between the ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) proposed by India. On the coronavirus pandemic, he said India and ASEAN are "strong partners in Covid response: medicines or oxygen, equipment or logistics". Jaishankar also proposed 2022 as the ASEAN-India friendship year for the 30th anniversary of the ties between the two sides. The ASEAN is considered to be one of the most influential groupings in the region, and India and several other countries including the US, China, Japan and Australia are its dialogue partners. The ties between India and the ASEAN have been on an upswing in the last few years with the focus being on ramping up cooperation in the areas of trade and investment as well as security and defence. The EAS is the premier forum in the Asia-Pacific region to deal with issues relating to security and defence. Since its inception in 2005, it has played a significant role in the strategic, geopolitical and economic evolution of East Asia. Apart from the 10 ASEAN member states, the EAS includes India, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia.

Code of Conduct on the South China Sea should be consistent with UN convention: EAM Jaishankar

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