India advocates rule-based order in Indo-Pacific
India’s Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh, addressed the 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus forum in Vientiane, Lao PDR on November 21, 2024. In his speech, he emphasized India’s commitment to freedom of navigation, overflight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the Indo-Pacific region. Singh highlighted the importance of adherence to international law for peace and prosperity in the region, particularly the UN Convention Law of Sea 1982.
One of the key topics of discussion at the forum was the Code of Conduct. Singh expressed India’s desire for a Code that doesn’t undermine the legitimate rights and interests of nations not involved in the deliberations. He emphasized the need for the Code to be fully consistent with international law.
Singh also addressed the ongoing conflicts and challenges to the international order. He praised the choice of holding the forum in Lao PDR, a country that has embraced the principles of non-violence and peace. Singh called for a closer embrace of Buddhist doctrines of peaceful co-existence as the world becomes increasingly polarized, leading to strain on the established world order.
India has always advocated for and practiced dialogue in resolving complex international issues. Singh highlighted India’s commitment to open communication and peaceful negotiation in various areas, from border disputes to trade agreements. He emphasized that dialogue promotes trust, understanding, and cooperation, laying the foundation for sustainable partnerships. Singh believes that genuine, long-term solutions to global problems can only be achieved through constructive engagement and cooperation among nations.
Singh described the 21st century as the ‘Asian Century’ and acknowledged the economic dynamism of the ASEAN region. He highlighted India’s role as a trusted friend to the region and emphasized the deep cultural and historical ties between India and Southeast Asia.
The Defense Minister also celebrated a decade of the Government’s Act East policy, which has strengthened India’s ties with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific nations. He reiterated the pivotal role of ASEAN in India’s policy.
Addressing the issue of climate change, Singh emphasized the need to strengthen resilience in the defense domain. He called for multi-stakeholder engagement in developing innovative solutions and managing the adverse impacts of climate change. Singh highlighted the interlinkages between climate change and threats to security and called for the development of an ADMM-Plus Defense Strategy on Climate Change.
Singh also drew attention to the importance of safeguarding the Global Commons, shared natural resources and ecosystems essential for sustaining life and bringing prosperity. He stressed the need to protect these resources in a just and balanced manner, without resorting to unilateral actions.
The 11th ADMM-Plus forum included 10 ASEAN countries, eight Plus countries, and Timor Leste. The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of Laos, General Chansamone Chanyalath.
In conclusion, Rajnath Singh’s address at the 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus forum highlighted India’s commitment to freedom of navigation, peaceful co-existence, and dialogue in resolving international issues. He emphasized the importance of adherence to international law and the need to protect the Global Commons. Singh celebrated the strengthening of India’s ties with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific nations through the Act East policy. The forum provided an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation among participating nations in addressing the challenges to the international order and climate change.
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