Delhi, July 14 (HS): India on Tuesday reiterated its long-standing position that maritime disputes in the South China Sea should be resolved peacefully in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Responding to media queries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to emphasise freedom of navigation and overflight, lawful uses of the sea and unimpeded commerce in accordance with international law as reflected in UNCLOS.

He said India believes maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully and reaffirmed that the arbitral tribunal's award delivered ten years ago remains a significant milestone and provides the basis for peaceful settlement of disputes between the concerned parties.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar