Thu Nov 21 06:26:40 UTC 2024: ## India Urges Buddhist Principles Amidst Global Tensions at ASEAN Defence Conclave

**Vientiane, Laos –** Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called for the adoption of Buddhist principles of peaceful co-existence to address escalating global conflicts and challenges to the international order during the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Vientiane on Thursday. Addressing his counterparts, including China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun, Mr. Singh emphasized India’s commitment to dialogue and negotiation as a means of resolving international disputes, including border conflicts.

Mr. Singh highlighted India’s belief that open communication fosters trust and cooperation, crucial for building sustainable partnerships. He underscored India’s view on the ongoing discussions for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, stating that it should uphold international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and not infringe upon the rights of non-participating nations. This statement comes amidst concerns regarding China’s increasing military presence in the region.

The Defence Minister further advocated for constructive engagement and mutual respect amongst nations as essential for achieving long-term solutions to global problems. He cited Laos, the host nation, as a positive example of a country that has embraced Buddhist principles of non-violence and peace. He also noted the relevance of Buddhism’s emphasis on harmony between humanity and nature in addressing contemporary challenges, including climate change.

Mr. Singh reaffirmed India’s strong ties with the ASEAN region, describing the 21st century as the “Asian Century” and highlighting the historical and cultural links between India and Southeast Asia. He also emphasized the success of India’s “Act East” policy in strengthening relationships with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific nations. He further stressed the importance of strengthening resilience to climate change in the defence domain, advocating for multi-stakeholder engagement to mitigate its impact on both populations and defense infrastructure. Mr. Singh’s three-day visit to Vientiane concluded with his participation in the ADMM-Plus meeting, a platform involving ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners, including India, China, and the US.

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