India today said it supports freedom of navigation and access to resources in the South China Sea and allied region in accordance with principles of international law .

Addressing the 19th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Comdbodian capital, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna also delved on the issue of grave threat of terrorism
and sought a comprehensive global approach and strengthened commitment to deal with the menace.

On the issue of the South China Sea (SCS), which figured prominently in the forum, he said all the countries must respect principles of international law in resolving the matter and hoped that progress will be made with respect to implementation of Guidelines to the 2002 Declaration of Conduct on the South China Sea.

Later speaking to reporters,Mr. Krishna said the message of the meeting was that the discussion to resolve the issue should be taking place without intimidation or without any
pressure tactics.

Noting that terrorism remains a grave threat, he said the global regime against the menace needs to be hinged on a holistic framework.

About Afghanistan, he said the international community should remain engaged in the war-torn country and extend support for a successful transition process.The external affairs minister added that India is committed to assisting the people and Government of Afghanistan as they build a peaceful, pluralistic, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan.