India’s emphasis on the rule of law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and advocacy for freedom of navigation and overflight in the Indo-Pacific are not directed against any country but are aimed at safeguarding the interests of all regional stakeholders, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said today.
Addressing the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, he said India’s strategic engagement with ASEAN is long-term and principle-driven, based on the shared belief that the Indo-Pacific should remain open, inclusive, and free from coercion.
Singh highlighted the relevance of “Inclusivity and Sustainability” under Malaysia’s chairmanship, stressing that all nations, regardless of size or capacity, should participate in shaping the regional order. He added that India’s security vision for the Indo-Pacific integrates defence cooperation with economic development, technology sharing, and human resource advancement.
Describing ADMM-Plus as an essential element of India’s Act East Policy, Singh said India stands ready to deepen cooperation to promote dialogue, strengthen regional mechanisms, and ensure peace and stability. He also underlined India’s active role in co-chairing multiple Expert Working Groups and participating in field exercises since the inception of ADMM-Plus.
“India is ready to continue contributing constructively through dialogue, partnership, and practical cooperation in the spirit of MAHASAGAR – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions,” he said.