Attacking china under the guise of ASEAN...?
Brunei has a 160 km long coastline in the South China Sea, but has some serious maritime disputes with china, which claims sovereignty over the entire region. china defines its border in the South china sea through the so-called nine-dash line, which has become a 10-dash line in recent years. The fifth and sixth parts of China's maritime boundary line take China's sovereign claim within 35 nautical miles of Brunei's coast, where most of its important offshore energy industry is located.
India's border dispute with china is also well known. In such a situation, it becomes important for india to strengthen its relationship with brunei, so that both countries can help each other against china at the international level. If we take a closer look at the joint statement that came after the meeting, one can clearly find that the leaders have reiterated their commitment to maintaining and promoting peace, stability, maritime security and safety, as well as respecting freedom of navigation and overflight and uninterrupted lawful commerce. Emphasis was also laid on international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the sea (UNCLOS) 1982.
The leaders also urged all parties to resolve disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, especially UNCLOS 1982. Which shows that india gave an indirect message to china to respect the 'border and sovereignty' of nations, especially China's neighbors. Also pointed to maintaining a rule-based system keeping in mind international law. This will give strength to a small country like brunei not to be afraid of a powerful country like China.
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