India, China have displayed maturity in ensuring a peaceful border: PM Modi in Singapore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the maturity shown by India and China in recent times.

Delivering the keynote address at Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore PM Modi highlighted the role that India and China have been and will have to continue playing for development in Asia and South-East Asian region.

"We are the two most populous countries in the world and two of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. Working together and with confidence and trust will ensure the entire region benefits and progresses," he said.

"In recent times, both India and China have shown wisdom and maturity in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border. Being sensitive to each other's needs and aspirations is the way forward."

He asserted that an Asia of "rivalries" will hold the region back while an Asia of cooperation will shape the century.

"It is a world that summons us to rise above divisions and competition to work together," the Prime Minister said.
Referring to regional maritime issues, PM Modi said India does not see the Indo-Pacific region as a strategy or as a club of limited members.

"India stands for a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific region, which embraces us all in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity," he said.

He further said, "We believe that our common prosperity and security require us to evolve, through dialogue, a common rules-based order for the region."

On issues relating to trade, Modi said India stands for an open and stable international trade regime.

"Competition is normal. But, contests must not turn into conflict; differences must not be allowed to become disputes," he said

Earlier on Thursday, Modi hailed the "warmest and closest" relationship between India and Singapore, saying the future is a world of unlimited opportunities and the two lions (countries) shall step into it together.

Modi is in Singapore on the last leg of his three-nation Southeast Asian tour.

Before Singapore, Prime Minister visited Indonesia and Malaysia in a bid to enhance India's relations and engagements with the three countries, who are members of the ASEAN.