Mon Jan 27 03:20:52 UTC 2025: ## India and Indonesia Call for Binding South China Sea Code of Conduct

**New Delhi, January 27, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto concluded talks on Saturday, issuing a joint statement calling for a full and effective code of conduct in the South China Sea, adhering to international law. The statement comes amidst growing concerns over China’s increasing military presence in the region.

The two leaders, who met during President Subianto’s four-day visit culminating in his role as chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations, strongly condemned terrorism and pledged to enhance anti-terror cooperation. They also emphasized the importance of concerted global efforts to combat terrorism without double standards, urging action against UN-proscribed terrorist organizations.

Economically, the leaders agreed to expedite the implementation of a 2024 MoU promoting bilateral transactions using local currencies, aiming to boost trade and deepen financial integration. They also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, stability, freedom of navigation, and overflight in the South China Sea, advocating for the peaceful resolution of disputes according to international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Significantly, both nations supported the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and pushed for the early conclusion of a binding Code of Conduct (COC) that aligns with international law. This stance echoes the concerns of ASEAN countries regarding China’s expansive claims in the region, which Beijing continues to contest.

Further strengthening their strategic partnership, India and Indonesia agreed to establish a bilateral maritime dialogue and a cybersecurity dialogue. They also welcomed the ratification of a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), anticipating further deepening of defence ties, including cooperation in hydrography and submarine search and rescue. Finally, Indonesia will position a liaison officer at India’s Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram.

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