India has consistently advocated for adherence to international norms in resolving territorial disputes such as those in the South China Sea. Given India’s commitment to freedom of navigation and regional stability under its Indo-Pacific strategy, any escalations or external interventions impacting this disputed zone could influence India’s own approach towards similar areas like the Indian Ocean Region. As an observer stakeholder with ambitions for regional peace and cooperation, India must balance encouraging dialog while ensuring its strategic interests are safeguarded.