Beijing wary of Indian presence in S. China sea

Beijing wary of Indian presence in S. China sea

Context

China on Thursday objected to Vietnam’s invitation to India to invest in oil and natural gas sector in the disputed South China Sea, saying it is firmly opposed to infringement of its rights using development of bilateral ties as an “excuse”

Invitation to India

• Investment in South China Sea: Vietnam’s Ambassador to India Ton SinhThanh on Tuesday had told an Indian news channel that his country would welcome Indian investments in the South China Sea
• Defence cooperation: Mr.Thanh had also said defence cooperation is one of the important and effective areas of cooperation between India and Vietnam and India can be helpful in expanding Vietnam’s defence capabilities

China’s response

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said that

“China does not object to the development of normal bilateral relations of relevant countries in our neighbourhood… “But China firmly oppose relevant party to use it as an excuse to infringe upon China’s legitimate rights and interests in the South China Sea and impair regional peace and stability”

Backdrop

China has been opposing Oil and Natural Gas Corporation exploring oil in wells claimed by Vietnam in the South China Sea for years