PM Modi Attends East Asia Summit, Calls For Global Peace: 'Solutions Cannot Be Found On Battlefield'

Speaking at the East Asia Summit in Vietnam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Friday that the ongoing conflicts across various regions of the world are having a detrimental effect on the Global South.

He also advocated for a rule-based Indo-Pacific region and emphasised the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation.

Photo Credit: PTI

"The conflicts ongoing in different parts of the world are having the most negative impact on the countries of the Global South. Everyone desires that, whether in Eurasia or West Asia, peace and stability should be restored as quickly as possible. I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly asserted that this is not an era for war. Solutions to problems cannot be found on the battlefield. It is essential to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international laws. Adopting a humanitarian approach, dialogue and diplomacy must be prioritised. India, fulfilling its responsibility as a global partner, will continue to contribute in every possible way towards this goal," PM Modi stated.

"We believe maritime activities should be conducted in accordance with UNCLOS. It is necessary to ensure freedom of navigation and airspace," he added.

He remarked that the peace, security, and stability of the South China Sea are crucial for the entire Indo-Pacific region.

"A free, open, inclusive, prosperous, and rule-based Indo-Pacific is vital for the progress of the entire region," he continued.

PM Modi also highlighted terrorism as a major threat to global peace and security.

"Terrorism is a serious challenge to global peace and security. To counter this, forces that believe in humanity must work together. Additionally, mutual cooperation in areas such as cyber, maritime, and space must be strengthened," he said.

He reiterated the importance of respecting sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international laws, while stressing that dialogue and diplomacy should be prioritised.

During the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines in Vientiane, where he extended his condolences for the loss of at least 14 lives in the United States due to Hurricane Milton since Wednesday.

PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Laos and participated in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit on Thursday.

(With agency inputs)