Rajnath Singh proposes ASEAN youth bridge to boost ties

New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh has proposed a dedicated defence "youth bridge" across the Asean region to promote digital innovation and capacity building, underlining that the shared demographic profile and aspiration of the young populations provide a strong foundation for deeper regional partnership.

Speaking at the 13th Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)-Plus in Cebu, Philippines, the minister said empowering youth and providing them with greater opportunities to contribute to regional peace is essential for building a peaceful, resilient and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

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On Indo-Pacific region, the minister said maritime security is closely connected with the safety and prosperity of the wider region and India's emphasis on the rule of law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and its advocacy for freedom of navigation and overflight are not directed against any country but are meant to safeguard the collective interests of all regional stakeholders who depend on open sea lanes and stable maritime governance.

Singh also highlighted that by deploying frontline warships, India has successfully escorted thousands of merchant vessels and thwarted dozens of high-seas hijackings, extending protection to commercial shipping irrespective of flag or nationality.

"In an era where global trade routes face complex transnational threats, India stands ready to move beyond rhetoric. There is a need for effective action, regular operational presence and international cooperation. India will continue serving as a reliable net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo-Pacific," he said.

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In his address, Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to collective regional security and the eradication of terrorism in all its forms, emphasising that New Delhi's extensive expertise in counter-terrorism is based on hard earned experience through decades of directly confronting complex, cross-border security challenges.

He added that India remains committed to collective regional security and eradication of terrorism and is ready to share battle-tested expertise with ADMM-Plus partners to strengthen joint capabilities.