Lagatar24 Desk
Hanoi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed concerns over the ongoing global conflicts, stating that they are adversely affecting the Global South. Addressing the East Asia Summit in Vietnam, PM Modi emphasized the need for restoring peace and stability across regions like Eurasia and West Asia.
“The conflicts going on in different parts of the world are having the most negative impact on the countries of the Global South. Everyone wants peace and stability, whether in Eurasia or West Asia. I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly said that this is not the era of war. Solutions to problems cannot come from the battlefield. It is necessary to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international laws,” PM Modi stated.
He also underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy over conflict, advocating for a humanitarian approach to resolving issues.
Call for Rule-Based Indo-Pacific
The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rule-based Indo-Pacific region, which he deemed crucial for regional progress. “Maritime activities should be conducted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and it is necessary to ensure freedom of navigation and air space,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of peace in the South China Sea, Modi noted, “The peace, security, and stability of the South China Sea are in the interest of the entire Indo-Pacific region.”
Terrorism: A Global Challenge
PM Modi also identified terrorism as a significant threat to global peace and security, calling for global cooperation to combat it. “Forces believing in humanity must work together to face terrorism. Mutual cooperation in areas of cyber, maritime, and space must also be strengthened,” he urged.
The Prime Minister met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the summit and conveyed his condolences on the loss of lives in the US due to Hurricane Milton.
PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Laos and participated in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit on Thursday.
