In a powerful address at the 19th East Asia Summit, PM Narendra Modi emphasized the need for peaceful resolutions to global conflicts, advocating for respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and adherence to international laws.
PM Modi pointed out that nations in the Global South bear the brunt of ongoing conflicts, underscoring a shared desire for swift restoration of peace and stability, whether in Eurasia or West Asia.
“The countries of the Global South are facing the most negative impact of the conflicts in different regions of the world. Everyone wants restoration of peace and stability as soon as possible,” PM Modi stated.
Drawing from his heritage, he stressed that this is ‘not an age for war’, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy over military solutions.
The Prime Minister remarked, “I come from the land of the Buddha, and I have said repeatedly that this is not an age for war. Keeping a humanitarian perspective, dialogue and diplomacy must given priority,” further suggesting that the focus should be on evolution rather than expansionism.
In recognition of India’s significant role in ASEAN, the summit organizers invited PM Modi as the first leader to address the summit after the host country’s remarks, highlighting India’s engagement in nine previous editions of the summit.
The Prime Minister extended his condolences to those affected by Typhoon Yagi and noted India’s humanitarian efforts through Operation Sadbhav.
He reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea, which he described as vital for the entire Indo-Pacific region.
Advocating for maritime activities aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), he called for a robust Code of Conduct that respects the foreign policy autonomy of regional nations.
On the situation in Myanmar, PM Modi expressed support for ASEAN’s approach, promising that India would continue to fulfill its responsibilities as a neighboring country.
The Prime Minister further emphasized the importance of engaging with Myanmar to restore democracy, stating, “We believe that, for this, Myanmar must be engaged, not isolated.”
Additionally, he called for a united front against terrorism, a pressing threat to global peace.
The Prime Minister also pushed for enhanced cooperation in cyber, maritime, and space sectors among nations.
In a nod to education and cultural heritage, PM Modi announced plans for the revival of Nalanda University and invited participants of the summit to the Heads of Higher Education Conclave scheduled to take place in June in Nalanda.
The next East Asia Summit is likely to occur in Malaysia, where leaders will continue discussions on regional cooperation and challenges.
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