New Delhi, September 7 (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for home on Thursday from Indonesia after a short but impactful visit. During this, the Prime Minister announced the decision to set up an Indian Embassy in Dili, Timor-Leste. The decision is a reflection of the importance India attaches to ASEAN and its relationship with Timor-Leste. The decision was warmly welcomed by Timor-Leste and ASEAN members. Timor-Leste joined ASEAN as an observer in 2022 before becoming a full member.
The Prime Minister said at the 18th East Asia Summit that India’s policy in Myanmar takes into account the position of ASEAN. Also, as a neighbouring country, our focus is to ensure peace and security on the borders and enhance India-ASEAN connectivity.
He said that it is in the interest of all of us to have peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. What is needed today is an Indo-Pacific where international law, including the UN Law of the Sea, applies equally to all countries. Where there is freedom of movement and flight and where there is unimpeded lawful commerce for the benefit of all, India believes that the code of conduct for the South China Sea should be effective and in accordance with UN maritime law. In this, the interests of those countries that are not part of the discussions should also be kept in mind.
He said that the current global scenario is surrounded by difficult circumstances and uncertainties. Terrorism, extremism, and geopolitical conflict are major challenges for all of us. To face these, a multilateral and rule-based world order is important. Full compliance with international laws is necessary, and everyone’s commitment and joint efforts are also necessary to strengthen the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. As I have said earlier, today is not the era of war, but dialogue and diplomacy are the only ways to find a solution.
Hindusthan Samachar/Indrani Sarkar
