Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to resolving international conflicts through dialogue and peaceful negotiation while addressing the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Vientiane, Laos, on Thursday. Highlighting India’s proactive approach to global peace and security, Singh emphasized the nation’s enduring policy of fostering cooperation and collaboration in tackling complex global challenges at the regional security forum.
“India stands for freedom of navigation & overflight, unimpeded lawful commerce and adherence to international law for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific,” said Rajnath Singh.
Commenting on the deliberations surrounding the Code of Conduct for South China Sea, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that India would like to see a Code that does not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of nations which are not party to these deliberations. He further stressed that the Code must adhere to international law, particularly the provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
His remarks on the Code of Conduct for the South China Sea came at a time when several countries in the region are advocating for its adoption amidst growing concerns over China’s expanding military presence and assertiveness in the area. Beijing, however, has consistently opposed the proposed Code of Conduct.
"India stands for freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce & adherence to international law for a peaceful Indo-Pacific," said Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh at the 11th #ADMMPlus in Lao PDR. He called for a fair & lawful Code of Conduct, dialogue-driven solutions to global… pic.twitter.com/gTgLR0GxgX
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) November 21, 2024
Global concerns have been mounting over China’s expansive claims of sovereignty over the entire South China Sea, a crucial maritime region rich in hydrocarbons. It has led to counterclaims from several regional nations, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Brunei, asserting competing territorial rights.
In his address, Singh emphasized India’s longstanding commitment to dialogue to resolve complex international issues. “India has consistently advocated for and practised dialogue to address intricate global challenges. This commitment to open communication and peaceful negotiation is reflected in India’s approach to a wide array of issues, from border disputes to trade agreements,” Singh stated. His remarks underscored the belief that constructive engagement between nations is essential for forging lasting, sustainable solutions to global challenges.
Invoking Buddhist doctrines to find solutions to the ongoing conflicts and challenges to the international order, Defence Minister noted “With the world increasingly getting polarised into blocks and camps, leading to increasing strain on the established world order, it is time that the Buddhist doctrines of peaceful co-existence are embraced more closely by all,” he said.
Singh began his three-day visit to Vientiane on Wednesday, primarily focusing on attending the ADMM-Plus meeting. The ADMM-Plus is a key platform that brings together the 10 ASEAN member states and their eight dialogue partners: India, China, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, and the United States. Laos is hosting this year’s meeting as the current chair of ADMM-Plus.
Team BharatShakti
