Conflicts harming Global South,” says PM Modi at East Asia Summit.
At the East Asia Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the critical importance of peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea for the entire Indo-Pacific region. He stressed that maintaining a peaceful and stable environment in this strategic waterway is essential for global trade and economic prosperity, as it is a major route for shipping. Modi urged all nations involved to respect international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to resolve disputes amicably. He reiterated India’s commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, fostering regional cooperation and development.
During his address at the East Asia Summit in Vietnam on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful message, highlighting the adverse effects of ongoing global conflicts on the Global South and reiterating India’s commitment to a peaceful, rule-based Indo-Pacific region. Modi emphasized the urgent need for peace, stability, and respect for international laws, particularly in the context of the Indo-Pacific and maritime navigation, while also advocating for dialogue and diplomacy over warfare.
Prime Minister Modi began by drawing attention to the impact of ongoing global conflicts, stating that the countries of the Global South—those developing nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America—are bearing the brunt of these crises. He expressed deep concern over how conflicts in different parts of the world, particularly in Eurasia and West Asia, are adversely affecting the political and economic stability of these nations. The Prime Minister underlined that the ramifications of these conflicts extend beyond the immediate regions where they occur, affecting global supply chains, energy security, and economic growth, which disproportionately hurt the more vulnerable nations.
Drawing from India’s deep cultural and historical roots, Modi invoked the teachings of Buddha to reinforce his stance on non-violence and peaceful coexistence. He reiterated that in today’s world, where countries are increasingly interconnected, war is not the solution to conflicts. His message was one of peace and diplomacy, stating that countries must prioritize dialogue and collaboration to resolve disputes.
Modi’s message was a clear call for respecting the sovereignty of all nations and ensuring that territorial disputes are handled within the framework of international law, including the United Nations Charter. He emphasized that solutions to global problems must not come through aggression or military action, but through diplomacy and mutual understanding. His words resonated strongly with India’s long-standing foreign policy that promotes peaceful resolution of disputes and international cooperation.
This call for a humanitarian perspective is especially relevant in today’s world where conflicts often result in massive human suffering, displacement, and loss of life. Modi’s focus on the Global South also reflects India’s role as a key voice for developing nations in global forums, advocating for their interests in international decision-making.
Modi also assured the world that India, as a responsible global actor, would continue to contribute to global peace efforts. “Fulfilling the responsibility of Vishwa Bandhu (global friendship), India will continue to contribute in every possible way in this direction.”
A significant portion of Modi’s speech was also dedicated to the Indo-Pacific region, a strategically important area for global trade and security. He reaffirmed India’s support for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, stressing the need for all countries to respect international maritime laws. The South China Sea, which falls within the Indo-Pacific, has been a point of contention due to overlapping territorial claims by various countries, and Modi’s call for maritime activities to be governed by international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is in line with India’s vision for the region.
Modi’s emphasis on the importance of UNCLOS reflects India’s commitment to maintaining order in the maritime domain, particularly in the South China Sea. The freedom of navigation and overflight is crucial for global trade, as much of the world’s shipping passes through this region. Disruptions or conflicts here could have far-reaching economic consequences.
His advocacy for ensuring freedom of navigation and respect for maritime boundaries underlines the importance of upholding international norms to prevent conflict in the Indo-Pacific region. India, which has strategic interests in the region, including strong trade ties and security partnerships, has consistently called for the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea, where several countries, including China, have competing territorial claims.
Modi’s speech at the East Asia Summit not only highlighted India’s global role as a peace advocate but also positioned the country as a strong supporter of the rule-based international order. His message was clear: the world must move away from conflict and work together to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for all, particularly for the developing nations of the Global South.
By reiterating India’s stance on global peace, rule of law, and respect for sovereignty, Prime Minister Modi reinforced the country’s commitment to playing a constructive role on the global stage. His remarks at the summit further solidified India’s position as a key player in promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific and a vocal advocate for the interests of the Global South.