Solutions to problems can’t come from battlefield: PM at East Asia summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the importance of dialogue over conflict during his address at the East Asia Summit on Thursday, warning that solutions to global problems cannot emerge from the battlefield.
His remarks come as the world witnesses rising tensions in the Middle East and eastern Europe due to Israel’s escalations with Iran and its proxies in Gaza and Lebanon, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
“Conflicts going on in different parts of the world are having the most negative impact on countries of the Global South,” PM Modi said, adding that peace and stability should be restored as soon as possible.
PM Modi, attending the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits in Laos to strengthen ties with ASEAN countries, reiterated his stance that diplomacy and peaceful resolutions are the only path forward. “I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly said this is not an era of war; solutions to problems cannot come from the battlefield,” he stated.
He advocated for a humanitarian approach to conflicts and reiterated India’s commitment to peace and diplomacy. “Keeping a humanitarian approach, dialogue and diplomacy will have to be given priority. Fulfilling the responsibility of Vishwabhadhu (global citizen), India will continue to contribute in every possible way in this direction,” he said.
The Prime Minister also pointed to the growing threat of terrorism, urging for global cooperation to tackle the issue.
“Terrorism is also a serious challenge to global peace and security. To face it, forces believing in humanity will have to work together. And mutual cooperation in the areas of cyber, maritime, and space will also have to be strengthened,” he said.
PM Modi also called for a “free, open, inclusive, prosperous, and rule-based Indo-Pacific,” signalling India’s ongoing concerns regarding China’s aggressive moves in the region. He noted that the peace, security, and stability of the South China Sea are vital to the progress of the Indo-Pacific.
“Our approach should be one of developmentalism and not expansionism,” he stated.