"Sharpening Of Tensions": S Jaishankar Targets China At Indian Ocean Meet

At the fifth Indian Ocean Conference, Dr Jaishankar said in a globalised world it is vital that freedom of navigation is respected

The consequences of China's rise and its growing capabilities are "particularly profound", External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said today as he flagged the "sharpening of tensions" on territorial issues across the breadth of Asia with Beijing's actions raising a question mark on the agreements of yesteryears. Good to meet President @GotabayaR at the 5th Indian Ocean Conference. His address was a prominent feature of the inaugural session. pic.twitter.com/V2hQWQiK0D

Speaking at the fifth Indian Ocean Conference - IOC 2021 - in Abu Dhabi, Dr Jaishankar also said that in a globalised world it is vital that freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded commerce are respected and facilitated.

Noting that a number of developments have taken place that have direct bearing on the well-being of the Indian Ocean region, the minister said that two developments -- the changing American strategic posture and the rise of China -- have influenced the evolution of the Indian Ocean in recent years.

"Since 2008, we've witnessed a greater caution in US power projection and an effort to correct its overextension. It may have taken different forms and been articulated in very different ways but there's larger consistency over three administrations that they themselves may not readily recognise. It is expressed in footprint and posture, terms of engagement, extent of involvement and nature of initiatives," he said.