PM Modi ASEAN speech: Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent address at the East Asia Summit (ASEAN) emphasized global peace while indirectly calling out Chinas actions in the South China Sea. His speech highlighted Indias commitment to peace and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, resonating with the interests of ASEAN countries.Here are the five key takeaways from PM Modis speech that could be causing concern in Beijing:1. Strong Indo-Pacific vision with ASEAN cooperationPM Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to the unity of ASEAN nations and emphasized that ASEAN is central to Indias Indo-Pacific strategy and Quad cooperation. He pointed out the significant alignment between Indias Indo Pacific Oceans Initiative and ASEANs Indo Pacific Outlook. Stressing the need for a free, open, inclusive, and rule-based Indo-Pacific, he said, Peace, security, and stability in the South China Sea are essential for the entire Indo-Pacific region.2. The Century of India and ASEANModi expressed optimism about the future, declaring, The 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN countries. In light of global conflicts, he underlined the importance of friendship, dialogue, and cooperation between ASEAN and India. This vision stands in contrast to the ongoing disputes involving China, especially in the South China Sea.3. Impact of global conflicts on the Global SouthModi highlighted the negative impact of conflicts in regions like Eurasia and West Asia on developing nations, particularly in the Global South. He urged for peace and stability, indirectly hinting at Chinas role in exacerbating regional tensions through its territorial claims and activities.4. Prioritizing diplomacy over warDrawing from Indias heritage of peace, PM Modi reiterated that this is not the era of war. He called for respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law, emphasizing that solutions to global issues must come through dialogue, not conflict. His remarks resonated as a subtle message to China, advocating for diplomacy over aggressive territorial expansion.5. Support for ASEAN on MyanmarOn Myanmar, Modi expressed Indias backing of ASEANs five-point consensus for peace and democratic restoration. He stressed the need for humanitarian aid and warned against isolating Myanmar. As a neighboring country, India remains committed to its responsibilities. This stance, again, emphasizes Indias role in regional stability, which indirectly challenges Chinas influence in Myanmar.India at the East Asia SummitPM Modis address was delivered during the 19th East Asia Summit, attended by ten ASEAN member nations along with key global partners including Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia, and the US. ASEAN, formed in 1967, is a regional bloc comprising Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei, and Laos.
