11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus)
11th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus)
India’s Strategic Vision at the 11th ADMM-Plus: Rajnath Singh Advocates Peace, Cooperation, and Regional Security
India’s Message at the 11th ADMM-Plus Forum
At the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on November 21, 2024, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a compelling address emphasizing India’s strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific and its enduring commitment to peace, cooperation, and international law.
Key Highlights from India’s Address
- Freedom of Navigation & Rule of Law: India reaffirmed its support for UNCLOS and the need for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea to ensure lawful commerce and regional stability.
- Peaceful Coexistence: Singh invoked Buddhist doctrines to counter rising global polarization and stressed the importance of dialogue over conflict.
- Climate Security: He called for multi-stakeholder defence strategies to address climate change and protect vulnerable populations.
- ASEAN’s Role in the Asian Century: India emphasized ASEAN’s centrality in shaping global dynamics and reiterated its commitment through the Act East policy.
- Cultural Ties: Quoting Rabindranath Tagore, Singh highlighted India’s deep-rooted historical connections with Southeast Asia.
- Global Commons: India advocated for equitable management of shared resources like oceans and biodiversity, warning against unilateral actions.