Rajnath Singh attends ADMM-Plus, advocates rule-based global order for Indo-Pacific peace
| 2024-11-22
Rajnath Singh arrives for the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Vientiane, Laos on November 21, 2024.
Defence Minister Singh highlights India's enduring policy of resolving international conflicts through dialogue
India reaffirmed its commitment to a rule-based international order and peaceful coexistence in the Indo-Pacific region during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's address at the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) held in Vientiane, Laos on Thursday (November 21, 2024). The high-level forum brought together defense leaders from 10 ASEAN countries, their eight dialogue partners, and Timor Leste, to discuss pressing security challenges and cooperation strategies.
Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Dialogue
Defence Minister Singh highlighted India's enduring policy of resolving international conflicts through dialogue and peaceful negotiation, emphasizing the nation’s belief in fostering collaboration to tackle global challenges. "India has always practiced dialogue for addressing complex international issues. Sustainable solutions can only emerge when nations engage constructively, respecting each other's perspectives," Singh said.
Drawing inspiration from Lao PDR's historical embrace of Buddhist principles, Singh advocated for global adoption of doctrines of peaceful coexistence to address growing polarization and strain on the established international order.
India's Vision for the Indo-Pacific
Underlining India’s approach to the Indo-Pacific, Singh stated, "India stands for freedom of navigation, unimpeded lawful commerce, and adherence to international law for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific."
Referring to discussions on the South China Sea Code of Conduct, Singh emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Code adheres to international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He called for a fair and balanced agreement that does not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of non-signatory nations.
The Indian Defence Minister's comments come amidst ongoing regional concerns over China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, an area crucial for global trade and rich in natural resources.
Highlighting the intersection of climate change and global security, Singh urged for a collective ADMM-Plus Defence Strategy on Climate Change. He emphasized the need for multi-stakeholder engagement to develop innovative solutions and manage the adverse impacts of climate change on defense operations.
"Strengthening resilience to climate change in the defense domain requires us to protect vulnerable populations and safeguard defense installations. Deepening our understanding of climate-security interlinkages is crucial," he said. Singh further called for safeguarding the Global Commons—shared natural resources essential for ecological balance and economic prosperity.
India-ASEAN Relations: A Decade of Progress
Defence Minister Singh celebrated a decade of India’s Act East policy, which has significantly strengthened ties with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific nations. He quoted Rabindranath Tagore’s 1927 observation of Southeast Asia: "Everywhere I could see India, yet I could not recognize it."
"India remains a trusted partner for ASEAN, which has been a cornerstone of our foreign policy," Singh remarked, underscoring India’s long-standing support for the region’s economic dynamism and cultural vibrancy.
The 11th ADMM-Plus meeting served as a platform for participating nations to address shared security concerns and enhance regional cooperation. Singh called for constructive engagement to protect shared interests and promote collective prosperity.
As the summit concluded, Singh’s advocacy for a peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific resonated strongly among the attendees. The Defence Minister emphasized that India’s approach—rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence—offers a pathway to global stability and security.
Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Dialogue
Defence Minister Singh highlighted India's enduring policy of resolving international conflicts through dialogue and peaceful negotiation, emphasizing the nation’s belief in fostering collaboration to tackle global challenges. "India has always practiced dialogue for addressing complex international issues. Sustainable solutions can only emerge when nations engage constructively, respecting each other's perspectives," Singh said.
Drawing inspiration from Lao PDR's historical embrace of Buddhist principles, Singh advocated for global adoption of doctrines of peaceful coexistence to address growing polarization and strain on the established international order.
India's Vision for the Indo-Pacific
Underlining India’s approach to the Indo-Pacific, Singh stated, "India stands for freedom of navigation, unimpeded lawful commerce, and adherence to international law for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific."
Referring to discussions on the South China Sea Code of Conduct, Singh emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Code adheres to international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He called for a fair and balanced agreement that does not prejudice the legitimate rights and interests of non-signatory nations.
The Indian Defence Minister's comments come amidst ongoing regional concerns over China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, an area crucial for global trade and rich in natural resources.
Highlighting the intersection of climate change and global security, Singh urged for a collective ADMM-Plus Defence Strategy on Climate Change. He emphasized the need for multi-stakeholder engagement to develop innovative solutions and manage the adverse impacts of climate change on defense operations.
"Strengthening resilience to climate change in the defense domain requires us to protect vulnerable populations and safeguard defense installations. Deepening our understanding of climate-security interlinkages is crucial," he said. Singh further called for safeguarding the Global Commons—shared natural resources essential for ecological balance and economic prosperity.
India-ASEAN Relations: A Decade of Progress
Defence Minister Singh celebrated a decade of India’s Act East policy, which has significantly strengthened ties with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific nations. He quoted Rabindranath Tagore’s 1927 observation of Southeast Asia: "Everywhere I could see India, yet I could not recognize it."
"India remains a trusted partner for ASEAN, which has been a cornerstone of our foreign policy," Singh remarked, underscoring India’s long-standing support for the region’s economic dynamism and cultural vibrancy.
The 11th ADMM-Plus meeting served as a platform for participating nations to address shared security concerns and enhance regional cooperation. Singh called for constructive engagement to protect shared interests and promote collective prosperity.
As the summit concluded, Singh’s advocacy for a peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific resonated strongly among the attendees. The Defence Minister emphasized that India’s approach—rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence—offers a pathway to global stability and security.
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