India watching China`s exploration moves

India is keeping a close watch on developments concerning national security and commercial interests in the wake of China`s move for exploration.

New Delhi: India on Wednesday said it was keeping a
close watch on developments concerning national security and
commercial interests in the wake of China`s move for
exploration in the South-West Indian Ocean.

"Government keeps a constant watch on all developments
concerning our national security and commercial interests and
takes all necessary measures to safeguard them in accordance
with the prevailing security situation and strategic
considerations," Defence Minister A K Antony said during
Question Hour.

He was responding to concerns expressed in Rajya Sabha
over the issue.

Antony, however, said China Ocean Mineral Resources
Research and Development Association`s 15-year contract with
International Seabed Authority for prospecting and exploration
of polymetallic sulphides in the Indian Ocean ridge is in an
area beyond the national jurisdiction of any state of the high
seas.

He said India is also working towards exploration of
polymetallic sulphides and efforts are targeted to study the
sea floor hydrothermal systems.

He said the right to exploration in international water is
accorded by the UN.

PTI

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