North News
New Delhi, November 21
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored India’s commitment to peace, stability, and climate resilience in his address at the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Laos on Thursday. “India stands for freedom of navigation, overflight, unimpeded lawful commerce, and adherence to international law in the Indo-Pacific,” Rajnath Singh said, reaffirming India’s strategic priorities in the region.
Defence Minister highlighted the importance of safeguarding “global commons” – shared natural resources critical to sustaining life and prosperity across borders. He proposed the development of an ADMM-Plus Defence Strategy on Climate Change, citing the forum’s representation of 53% of the global population and 65% of the world’s defense budget as a unique platform for collaboration.
“Strengthening resilience to climate change requires multi-stakeholder engagement, innovative solutions, and protecting vulnerable populations alongside defense installations,” he added.
Emphasizing the ASEAN region’s historic and economic dynamism, Singh described the 21st century as the “Asian Century” and reaffirmed India’s friendship with ASEAN nations.
He also drew on Buddhist principles of non-violence and harmony, praising Laos for its rich heritage. “Buddhism promotes peaceful coexistence among people and with nature, offering a guiding principle for global harmony,” Rajnath Singh said.
Addressing the ongoing discussions on a South China Sea Code of Conduct, the Defence Minister stressed that the framework must respect international laws, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and safeguard the rights of non-participant nations. “The Code should align with international law and ensure an inclusive, fair order,” Singh remarked, amid calls for a balanced approach to geopolitical challenges.
