India’s stance on the South China Sea is “clear and consistent,” viewing it as a component of the global commons, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday.

During a special briefing regarding the current visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr, MEA Secretary (East) P Kumaran expressed that India has a “lasting interest” in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

He was questioned about the recently conducted India-Philippines bilateral naval exercise near the Philippines.

Reports indicate that the exercise also occurred in certain areas of the South China Sea.