India will continue to uphold ASEAN unity and centrality through its Act East Policy, Says EAM Dr S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that India will continue to uphold ASEAN unity and centrality through its Act East Policy. Speaking at the 14th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting in Vientiane today, he said, the Act East Policy which was announced at the 9th East Asia Summit has been completed for a decade. The Minister said, the East Asia Summit process completed for two decades next year and India will contribute towards a stronger East Asia Summit process. He said, India remains a steadfast supporter of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific AOIP and appreciates its convergence with Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative IPOI. Dr Jaishankar said, India encourages more East Asia Summit members to join IPOI. He said, India has consistently contributed towards the East Asia Summit Plan of Action and it was reflected in the East Asia Summit Conference on Maritime Security and Cooperation held in Mumbai.

The External Affairs Minister said, Nalanda University is a realization of an important commitment to the East Asia Summit. He said, India values the participation of ASEAN members in the Voice of the Global South Summit. Dr Jaishankar said, the Sea Lines of Communication SLOC passing through the South China Sea are critical for peace, stability, prosperity and development of the Indo-Pacific Region. He said, Code of Conduct should be substantive and effective, consistent with international law and should not prejudice legitimate rights and interests of nations not a party to discussions. The Minister said, In Myanmar, India’s bilateral efforts are in tandem with ASEAN, designed to engage all stakeholders. He said, India’s focus is on ensuring border security, countering transnational crime, mitigating violence and advancing connectivity projects. Dr Jaishankar said, India’s endeavours are mutually supportive to restore democracy. He also called for de-escalation and restraint in Gaza.

The External Affairs Minister said, India continues to extend humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine. He expressed concern about attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea. He added that India is independently contributing to ensuring the safety and security of maritime shipping. On the conflict in Ukraine, Dr Jaishankar said, India has maintained the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. He said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged President Putin and President Zelenskyy. The External Affairs Minister said, India stands ready to contribute in any manner possible. He said, the East Asia Summit is crucial in bringing the member countries together at a time when differences are sharp and interests are diverse. Dr Jaishankar said, India will always stand firm in its commitment to the East Asia Summit process.