UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, addressed the 2024 South China Sea Conference in Ha Long, Vietnam, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to regional security and international cooperation.
The speech highlighted the UK’s long-term engagement with ASEAN, the importance of maintaining maritime security, and addressing climate challenges within the Indo-Pacific region.
UK Commitment to the Indo-Pacific
During her speech, Minister West emphasized the UK’s role as a steadfast ally in the Indo-Pacific, reaffirming the nation’s dedication to the region. Since taking office, West has visited several ASEAN countries, underlining the importance of fostering partnerships across Asia.
“The UK wants a free and open Indo-Pacific,”
West declared, framing the UK’s approach as one that relies heavily on upholding international law and supporting ASEAN’s leadership.
She highlighted the significance of keeping the South China Sea—referred to locally as the East Sea—open for trade, acknowledging that these waters are crucial for global economic stability.
In particular, the UK’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) was front and centre in her address.
This diplomatic initiative comes at a critical time, with heightened tensions in the region. Recent confrontations between Chinese vessels and both Vietnamese and Philippine maritime forces have drawn global concern.
“Undermining international law anywhere has the potential to corrode the wider system of global governance,”
West added, pointing out the broader implications of regional disputes.
Maritime Security and the Rule of Law
One of the core messages of West’s speech was the necessity for collective efforts to maintain regional security, particularly in light of recent escalations.
“Blocking, ramming, and the use of water cannons have significantly raised the stakes in the South China Sea,” she noted,
referring to the aggressive tactics employed by Chinese law enforcement. Such incidents pose risks not only to international law but also to global maritime security.
The UK’s approach, as outlined by West, is a diplomatic yet firm stance against any attempts to undermine regional stability. Her speech also served as a reminder that the South China Sea’s security has a ripple effect on global economic prosperity.
With over a third of the world’s trade passing through this vital region, keeping these sea lanes safe is a priority for both ASEAN and international stakeholders.
Quick Facts: South China Sea Tensions (2024)
Incident Type |
Involved Parties |
Date |
Outcome/Concern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Cannon Confrontation | Chinese and Philippine vessels | August 2024 | Heightened risk of miscalculation |
| Ramming Incident | Chinese and Vietnamese boats | September 2024 | Serious injuries to Vietnamese fishermen |
| Maritime Protests | UK, ASEAN partners | Ongoing | Protests against actions undermining maritime law |
Climate and Security: A Unified Challenge
West’s address didn’t solely focus on security; climate change was also a significant point of discussion. With rising sea levels exacerbating maritime disputes, the UK is stepping up its involvement in climate-related initiatives across the region.
After the conference, West visited areas affected by Typhoon Yagi, witnessing first-hand the devastating effects of climate change on local communities.
“We were among the first countries to sign the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement,” she said,
underscoring the UK’s commitment to protecting critical ecosystems, such as the coral reefs that dominate Southeast Asia. The UK is leveraging its expertise through institutions like the UK Met Office, which is researching the impact of rising sea temperatures on marine life and food security in the region.
In alignment with the global push for a greener future, West highlighted the UK’s ambitious goal to achieve 100% clean energy by 2030. However, she emphasized that this is not a challenge any country can tackle alone.
The UK’s partnerships in the region, particularly through the Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Indonesia and Vietnam, demonstrate its resolve to accelerate the clean energy transition while fostering technological cooperation.
Strengthening Alliances
Minister West’s visit to the South China Sea Conference showcased the UK’s strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting both security and environmental concerns.
By working closely with ASEAN partners and supporting regional stability, the UK is positioning itself as a reliable and proactive ally in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
The speech concluded with an optimistic outlook on UK-ASEAN collaboration, particularly through future initiatives such as the Regional Maritime Security Symposium, set to take place in Southeast Asia next year.
West’s closing remarks were clear: “The stronger we work together, the more secure we all become.”
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & Catherine West MP.
