'Solutions Can't Come from Battlefield': PM Modi Calls for Peace at East Asia Summit

Vientiane: Prime Minister Narendra Modi , addressing the 19th East Asia Summit in Laos, made a strong call for peace, said that battlefields cannot resolve problems. As the world grapples with wars in various regions, Modi mentioned that the global south, including countries like India, is particularly affected by these conflicts. He urged for dialogue and diplomacy over military solutions, stating that peace and stability are in everyone's best interest. 

“I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly said that this is not the era of war. Solutions to problems cannot come from the battlefield,” Modi said during his speech, urging leaders to focus on peace initiatives instead of resorting to conflict.

Modi also touched on the importance of a free, open, and rule-based Indo-Pacific region, noting that such an environment is crucial for peace and development in the broader region. “A free, open, inclusive, prosperous, and rule-based Indo-Pacific is important for the peace and progress of the entire region,” he said.

Highlighting the geopolitical significance of the South China Sea, Modi stressed that its peace and stability are essential for the Indo-Pacific. “We believe that maritime activities should be conducted under the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS). It is necessary to ensure freedom of navigation and air space,” he said, urging for a strong, effective Code of Conduct that does not hinder the foreign policy of countries.

Calling for a shift from expansionism to developmentalism, the prime minister said, “Our approach should be one of developmentalism and not expansionism.” He added that respecting sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international laws must be prioritised.

Modi’s speech came against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict. He remarked that such wars severely impact not only the countries directly involved but also the global south. "Everyone wants peace and stability in the region," he said.

The prime minister also expressed his condolences for the victims of Typhoon Yagi, which struck parts of Southeast Asia and South China in September. India, he noted, had provided humanitarian aid through “Operation Sadbhav” to assist those affected by the disaster.

Reaffirming India’s support for ASEAN’s role in the region, Modi said, “India has always supported ASEAN Unity and Centrality.” He pointed out the shared visions between India’s ‘Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative’ and ASEAN’s ‘Outlook on Indo-Pacific’. Both strategies, he mentioned, focus on maintaining a peaceful, cooperative environment in the region.

The East Asia Summit, Modi said, remains a central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, through which the country seeks to enhance its engagement with the region for mutual peace and prosperity.