Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday stressed the significance of the Indo-Pacific region and expressed the country’s resolve for constructive interactions in the region for shared prosperity and security, while advocating multi-alignment and a “win-win situation” for everybody.
The Indo-Pacific region, according to Singh, continues to be crucial for the economic development of both the regional economy and the larger global community. Singh made this statement while delivering the keynote address at the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2022 in New Delhi.
“There is a deeper connection that allows us to share a common message of humanity across the Indo-Pacific region.” “Along this path of shared prosperity and security, India underlines the centrality of ASEAN in our endeavours with respect to the Indo-Pacific region,” he added.
In reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s most recent trip to Bali for the G-20 summit, he added that the G20 declaration stated that “now is not the time for conflict,” echoing the uncompromising message of our PM Modi that the era of war is over.
The Defense Minister stated in support of the multi-alignment strategy that a strong and wealthy India will not be developed at the expense of others but rather that India is there to assist other countries in reaching their full potential.
“We should strive to create a win-win situation for all. We should not be guided by narrow self-interest, which is not beneficial in the long run, but by enlightened self-interest, which is sustainable and resilient to shocks,” he said.
Furthermore, the defence minister said India has also been espousing the idea of multi-alignment. “We believe in a multi-aligned policy, which is realised through diverse engagements with multiple stakeholders, so that the views and concerns of all can be discussed and addressed for a prosperous future for all.”
In reference to India’s history of multi-alignment, Singh stated that the nation supports a multi-aligned policy, which is implemented through a variety of engagements with numerous stakeholders, allowing for the consideration of all points of view and concerns.
The defence minister mentioned how “The Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative” was introduced at the East Asia Summit in Bangkok and emphasised how India has always made an effort to cooperate with its allies in positive regional engagements.
“We have also proposed an ASEAN-India Initiative on Marine Plastic Pollution Response towards improving the marine ecosystem,” he said.
The minister further noted that the government has proposed the ASEAN-India Initiative for women in UN Peacekeeping Operations, which would contribute towards effective conflict resolution and lasting peace through a more humane approach.