GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.1110

TO BE ANSWERED ON 02.03.2016

CHINESE PRESENCE IN ARABIAN SEA

1110. SHRI ANANTKUMAR HEGDE:

SHRI V. ELUMALAI:

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether China has started to strengthen its position in the Arabian Sea;

(b) if so, the facts in this regard;

(c) the steps taken to protect the security interests of our country;

(d) whether the Government is also considering to initiate joint patrolling in the South China Sea region; and

(e) if so, the discussion held with various countries in this regard?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

[GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]

(a) to (c) Government is aware of development of China’s relations with the littoral countries in Arabian Sea region including through trade, investment, defence exchanges and arms supply, nuclear cooperation and infrastructure development. Government has seen reports that recently, management of operations of Gwadar Port in Pakistan, which was built by Chinese companies with Chinese official financial assistance, has been taken over by a Chinese company. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s security and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it.

(d) No. (e) Does not arise.