Vientiane (Lao PDR): India stood firmly for peace, prosperity, and global cooperation at the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) held in Laos on November 21, 2024. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India’s support for free navigation, fair trade, and respect for international laws like the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Singh stressed the need for a balanced Code of Conduct in the South China Sea that respects the rights of all nations, even those not directly involved in negotiations.
Learning from Buddhist Values
Calling for unity in a divided world, Singh urged global leaders to follow Buddhist principles of peace and non-violence. He highlighted Laos’ role as an example of these teachings, making it a fitting host for the meeting.
Stronger Ties with ASEAN Nations
Singh celebrated 10 years of India’s "Act East" policy, which focuses on strengthening relations with Southeast Asian nations. “India has always been a reliable friend to ASEAN countries,” he said, recalling Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s words about the deep cultural ties between India and the region.
Action on Climate Change
The Defence Minister raised concerns about climate change, calling it a growing security threat. He suggested creating a joint strategy to protect vulnerable communities and defense infrastructure from its impacts.
“Climate change is a challenge we must tackle together,” Singh said, urging countries to work collectively to safeguard shared natural resources.
Promoting Dialogue
Singh reaffirmed India’s belief in solving global issues through open dialogue. “Talking openly builds trust and cooperation, paving the way for lasting solutions,” he said.
The meeting included 10 ASEAN countries, 8 partner nations, and Timor Leste. Discussions focused on peace, security, and climate resilience in the Indo-Pacific region.