PM calls for peace in Eurasia, West Asia

Says solutions to problems cannot come from battlefield

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday emphasized the severe impact that conflicts in various parts of the world have on Global South nations, calling for the swift restoration of peace in Eurasia and West Asia through dialogue and diplomacy.

Speaking at the 19th East Asia Summit, Modi stressed the importance of a "free, open, inclusive, prosperous, and rules-based Indo-Pacific" for ensuring peace and progress across the region.

As the first speaker following the host, Lao PDR, and the incoming chair, Malaysia, Modi highlighted the significance of the East Asia Summit as a key element of India's Act East Policy, describing it as the Indo-Pacific's leading platform for strategic dialogue.

Amid rising Chinese assertiveness in the region, Modi underscored that peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea are crucial for the entire Indo-Pacific region. He noted the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and airspace, stating, "We believe that maritime activities should be conducted in accordance with UNCLOS. A robust and effective Code of Conduct should be developed."

India and other South Asian nations have repeatedly affirmed the importance of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the South China Sea, particularly in light of China's increasing assertiveness.

"Our approach should focus on development and not expansionism," Modi added, without explicitly naming any country.