Duterte seeks deeper ASEAN-India ties vs terrorism, transnational crimes

By Prince Golez

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday said the 10-member Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and India could further enhance cooperation in fighting terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crimes by sharing best practices and information.

The Philippines welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo- Pacific, said Duterte, citing the need to deepen the strategic partnership, particularly in public health, maritime security, digital economy, connectivity and science, technology and innovation as well as biodiversity conservation.

“ASEAN and India also stand to benefit from closer cooperation in disaster management, green recovery and smart cities. These are the vital areas of engagement in the context of climate change,” the President said at the virtual 18th ASEAN-India Summit.

Duterte, noting the significance of the South China Sea in global maritime activities and trade, stressed that stable maritime links are crucial in supporting the post-Covid-19 economic recovery.

He also thanked the Indian government for its consistent affirmation of the importance of the rule of law, freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes, in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Meanwhile, Duterte recognized India as one of ASEAN’s reliable partners and expressed his gratitude to its people for their contribution of $1 million to the Covid-19 ASEAN Response Fund.

The Chief Executive said he looks forward to 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year and committed to continue strengthening ASEAN-India relations for mutual gain.

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Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)