India’s outlook for Indo-Pacific emphasises peaceful resolution of disputes: Army chief | India News

NEW DELHI: India’s outlook for Indo-Pacific emphasises peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to international laws, chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande said on Tuesday.
“India’s vision for Indo-Pacific emphasises peaceful resolution of disputes, avoidance of use of force, and adherence to international laws,” he said while addressing a conclave of army chiefs of Indo-Pacific nations.
The Army chief’s remarks come amid growing global concerns over China’s aggressive military muscle-flexing in the region.

General Pande said that India’s strategic location propels us as a key player in Indo-Pacific region‘s discourse. He added that the region is not merely a collection of nations, “it is a web of interdependencies”.
“We are aiming to build trust and strengthen cooperation,” the Army chief said.
The outlook for Indo-Pacific emphasises respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity of all nations, he said at the two-day 13th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs’ Conference in New Delhi.

General Pande also said that India’s commitment towards positively engaging all stakeholders in the region has been unwavering and enduring.
“While efforts by countries are converging towards a free Indo-Pacific, yet we are witnessing manifestations of interstate contestations and competitions,” the Army chief added.
Speaking about the agenda and theme of the conclave, General Pande said, “The theme of this year’s event is – Together for Peace: Sustaining Peace and Stability in Indo-Pacific Region. It resonates deeply with the idea of a secure, stable, free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, which provides opportunities for growth for all nations,” he said.
“Over the next two days, the agenda is both diverse and wholesome. We shall deliberate on topics ranging from sustaining peace, promoting stability, military diplomacy, need for self-reliance, cooperation in military training and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” the Army chief added.
– With agency inputs