<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India </span>
<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer". </p></p>
<p>Notably, it is the 20th international award received by PM Modi. The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to Heads of State and foreign Sovereigns and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship. </p>
<p>PM Modi also received a grand ceremonial welcome in Kuwait during his two-day visit and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Kuwait's highest civilian award 'The Order of Mubarak the Great', from the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah</p>
<p>Video: news agency ANI<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/vsUOU7Tmle">pic.twitter.com/vsUOU7Tmle</a></p>
<p>— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1870774864929566948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>This visit comes with the intent to make the ties strong between India and Kuwait, which is an important partner for India’s energy, security, and trade. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be undertaken for signing as the PM will meet Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, strengthening bilateral relations. Before his departure, he will also meet his Kuwaiti counterpart, Dr Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and hold a joint press conference with him.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mini-hindustan-in-kuwait-pm-addresses-indian-diaspora-during-hala-modi-event-785859"><strong>Also Read: ‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event</strong></a></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the Kuwait visit</strong></h2>
<ul dir="ltr">
<li>As the visit began, the PM attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where he joined the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait.
</li>
<li>He talked to the Indian crowd at the "Hala Modi" event in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex and praised their contributions to the development of Kuwait. 
</li>
<li>The PM shed light on the overseas Indian workers by saying, "The aspirations of Indian workers, whether building airports in their villages or striving for a developed India by 2047, inspire me to work harder every day."
</li>
<li>Modi expressed his gratitude for their efforts and dedication, stating, "If you work 10 hours, I must work 11; if you work 11, I must work 12."
</li>
<li>Addressing the diaspora, Modi called India the "growth engine of the world," highlighting advancements in fintech, start-ups, and mobile manufacturing.
</li>
<li>He asserted a strong stance on India’s technological achievements, like optical fiber networks spanning distances equivalent to eight times the Earth-Moon distance.
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Gulf Spic Labour Camp and meets Indian workers, in Kuwait</p>
<p>	PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime… <a href="https://t.co/FMlwSIQkif">pic.twitter.com/FMlwSIQkif</a></p>
<p>	— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1870453942813159890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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</li>
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<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics 'Ramayana and Mahabharata'</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">The PM met two Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic, and a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. He expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Indian community.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The visit highlights India's and Kuwait’s historical connection and importance to India’s economy, as more than a million Indians live in Kuwait, making up 21% of its population and 30% of its workforce.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch | PM Modi Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Reaches Kuwait For A Two-day Visit</strong></p>
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<p dir="ltr">(<em>With inputs taken from agencies</em>) </p>


The two-day trip kickstarted on Saturday (Dec 21) after PM Modi had received an invite from the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.



New Delhi, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer". Notably, it is the 20th international award received by PM Modi. The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to Heads of State and foreign Sovereigns and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship. PM Modi also received a grand ceremonial welcome in Kuwait during his two-day visit and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Kuwait's highest civilian award 'The Order of Mubarak the Great', from the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah Video: news agency ANI#NarendraModi pic.twitter.com/vsUOU7Tmle — WION (@WIONews) December 22, 2024 × This visit comes with the intent to make the ties strong between India and Kuwait, which is an important partner for India’s energy, security, and trade. Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be undertaken for signing as the PM will meet Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, strengthening bilateral relations. Before his departure, he will also meet his Kuwaiti counterpart, Dr Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and hold a joint press conference with him. Also Read: ‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event Key highlights of the Kuwait visit As the visit began, the PM attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where he joined the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait. He talked to the Indian crowd at the "Hala Modi" event in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex and praised their contributions to the development of Kuwait. The PM shed light on the overseas Indian workers by saying, "The aspirations of Indian workers, whether building airports in their villages or striving for a developed India by 2047, inspire me to work harder every day." Modi expressed his gratitude for their efforts and dedication, stating, "If you work 10 hours, I must work 11; if you work 11, I must work 12." Addressing the diaspora, Modi called India the "growth engine of the world," highlighting advancements in fintech, start-ups, and mobile manufacturing. He asserted a strong stance on India’s technological achievements, like optical fiber networks spanning distances equivalent to eight times the Earth-Moon distance. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Gulf Spic Labour Camp and meets Indian workers, in Kuwait PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime… pic.twitter.com/FMlwSIQkif — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 × Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics 'Ramayana and Mahabharata' The PM met two Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic, and a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. He expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Indian community. The visit highlights India's and Kuwait’s historical connection and importance to India’s economy, as more than a million Indians live in Kuwait, making up 21% of its population and 30% of its workforce. Watch | PM Modi Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Reaches Kuwait For A Two-day Visit (With inputs taken from agencies)

Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, it is the 20th international award received by PM Modi. The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to Heads of State and foreign Sovereigns and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also received a grand ceremonial welcome in Kuwait during his two-day visit and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Kuwait's highest civilian award 'The Order of Mubarak the Great', from the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah<br />
<br />
Video: news agency ANI<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/vsUOU7Tmle">pic.twitter.com/vsUOU7Tmle</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1870774864929566948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>This visit comes with the intent to make the ties strong between India and Kuwait, which is an important partner for India’s energy, security, and trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be undertaken for signing as the PM will meet Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, strengthening bilateral relations. Before his departure, he will also meet his Kuwaiti counterpart, Dr&nbsp;Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and hold a joint press conference with him.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mini-hindustan-in-kuwait-pm-addresses-indian-diaspora-during-hala-modi-event-785859"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event</strong></a></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the Kuwait visit</strong></h2>

<ul dir="ltr">
	<li>As the visit began, the PM attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where he joined the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>He talked to the Indian crowd at the "Hala Modi" event in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex and praised their contributions to the development of Kuwait.&nbsp;<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The PM shed light on the overseas Indian workers by saying,&nbsp;"The aspirations of Indian workers, whether building airports in their villages or striving for a developed India by 2047, inspire me to work harder every day."<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Modi expressed his gratitude for their efforts and dedication, stating, "If you work 10 hours, I must work 11; if you work 11, I must work 12."<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Addressing the diaspora, Modi called India the "growth engine of the world," highlighting advancements in fintech, start-ups, and mobile manufacturing.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>He asserted a strong stance on India’s technological achievements, like optical fiber networks spanning distances equivalent to eight times the Earth-Moon distance.<br />
	&nbsp;
	<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
	<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
	<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
	<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Gulf Spic Labour Camp and meets Indian workers, in Kuwait<br />
	<br />
	PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime… <a href="https://t.co/FMlwSIQkif">pic.twitter.com/FMlwSIQkif</a></p>
	— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1870453942813159890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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	<p>&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics 'Ramayana and Mahabharata'</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">The PM met two Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic, and a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. He expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Indian community.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The visit highlights India's and Kuwait’s historical connection and importance to India’s economy, as more than a million Indians live in Kuwait, making up 21% of its population and 30% of its workforce.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Reaches Kuwait For A Two-day Visit</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-kuwait-visit-indian-pm-modi-reaches-kuwait-for-a-two-day-visit-785816/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p dir="ltr">(<em>With inputs taken from agencies</em>)&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer". Notably, it is the 20th international award received by PM Modi. The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to Heads of State and foreign Sovereigns and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship. PM Modi also received a grand ceremonial welcome in Kuwait during his two-day visit and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Kuwait's highest civilian award 'The Order of Mubarak the Great', from the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah Video: news agency ANI#NarendraModi pic.twitter.com/vsUOU7Tmle — WION (@WIONews) December 22, 2024 × This visit comes with the intent to make the ties strong between India and Kuwait, which is an important partner for India’s energy, security, and trade. Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be undertaken for signing as the PM will meet Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, strengthening bilateral relations. Before his departure, he will also meet his Kuwaiti counterpart, Dr Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and hold a joint press conference with him. Also Read: ‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event Key highlights of the Kuwait visit As the visit began, the PM attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where he joined the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait. He talked to the Indian crowd at the "Hala Modi" event in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex and praised their contributions to the development of Kuwait. The PM shed light on the overseas Indian workers by saying, "The aspirations of Indian workers, whether building airports in their villages or striving for a developed India by 2047, inspire me to work harder every day." Modi expressed his gratitude for their efforts and dedication, stating, "If you work 10 hours, I must work 11; if you work 11, I must work 12." Addressing the diaspora, Modi called India the "growth engine of the world," highlighting advancements in fintech, start-ups, and mobile manufacturing. He asserted a strong stance on India’s technological achievements, like optical fiber networks spanning distances equivalent to eight times the Earth-Moon distance. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Gulf Spic Labour Camp and meets Indian workers, in Kuwait PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime… pic.twitter.com/FMlwSIQkif — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 × Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics 'Ramayana and Mahabharata' The PM met two Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic, and a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. He expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Indian community. The visit highlights India's and Kuwait’s historical connection and importance to India’s economy, as more than a million Indians live in Kuwait, making up 21% of its population and 30% of its workforce. Watch | PM Modi Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Reaches Kuwait For A Two-day Visit (With inputs taken from agencies)

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was the first leader to speak at the 19th East Asia Summit on Friday following the host and the incoming chair Lao PDR, has termed the Summit as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy. He stressed that the revival of Nalanda was India's commitment given at the East Asia Summit.</p>

<p>India is marking 10 years of its Act East Policy.</p>

<p>In his address at the East Asia Summit PM Modi said India has always supported ASEAN unity and centrality and that ASEAN is at the centre of ASEAN's Indo-Pacific vision as well as Quad cooperation.</p>

<p>PM Modi said, "The revival of Nalanda was our commitment given in the East Asia Summit. In June this year, we have fulfilled it by inaugurating the new campus of Nalanda University. I invite all the countries present here to the Heads of Higher Education Conclave to be held in Nalanda. The East Asia Summit is an important pillar of India's Act East Policy."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-chief-guterres-urges-peace-in-lebanon-addresses-myanmar-crisis-at-asean-un-summit-in-laos-766671">UN Chief Guterres urges peace in Lebanon, addresses Myanmar crisis at ASEAN-UN summit in Laos</a></strong></p>

<p>He congratulated his Laos counterpart Sonexay Siphandone for organising East Asia Summit well and conveyed his best wishes to the upcoming chair Malaysia. He assured full support to Malaysia for their successful Presidency.</p>

<p>In his remarks on West Asia, PM Modi stated that "everyone wants whether it is Eurasia or West Asia, peace and stability should be restored as soon as possible."</p>

<p>"The conflicts going on in different parts of the world are having the most negative impact on countries of the Global South," he stated.</p>

<p>PM Modi said that he has repeatedly said that "this is not an era of war" and the solutions to problems cannot be solved on the battlefield. He said it is necessary to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity and international laws.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/noel-tata-half-brother-of-late-ratan-tata-appointed-chairman-of-tata-trusts-report-766589">Noel Tata, half-brother of late Ratan Tata, appointed chairman of Tata Trusts</a></strong></p>

<p>In his address, PM Modi stated, "I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly said that this is not the era of war. The problems cannot be solved on the battlefield. It is necessary to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity and international laws. Keeping a humanitarian approach, dialogue and diplomacy will have to be given priority. Fulfilling the responsibility of a 'Vishwabandhu', India will continue to make every possible contribution in this direction."</p>

<p>Terming terrorism as a "serious challenge" to global peace, PM Modi stated, "Terrorism is also a serious challenge to global peace and security. To face this, forces believing in humanity will have to work together. And, mutual cooperation in the areas of cyber, maritime and space will also have to be strengthened."</p>

<p>The East Asia Summit refers to the Meeting of Heads of States/Governments of the EAS participating countries which is convened annually. The EAS process was initiated in 2005 with the convening of the 1st East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.</p>

<p>At its inception, the East Asia Summit comprised 16 participating countries, namely ASEAN Member States, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. In 2011, the US and Russia joined at the 6th East Asia Summit in Bali.</p>

<p>At the Summit, the Prime Minister also called for a "peaceful" South China Sea and also stressed upon following UNCLOS, freedom of navigation and air space in the region.</p>

<p>PM Modi also called for a code of conduct in the South China Sea that doesn't impinge on the rights of others. "Peace, security and stability of the South China Sea are in the interest of the entire Indo-Pacific region," he said.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the Summit and extended condolences on the loss of at least 14 lives in the US due to Hurricane Milton since Wednesday.</p>

<p>On Thursday, PM Modi participated in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit. His visit is significant as this year marks a decade of India's Act East Policy.</p>

<p>Sharing the details of PM Modi's visit to Laos, the MEA said on Thursday, "PM Modi has arrived in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. At the airport, he was received by senior ministers of the Laos government and accorded a ceremonial welcome but what was truly special was the warm and very significant, meaningful welcome that he received at the hotel."</p>

<p>Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was welcomed by the Minister of Home Affairs of Laos, Vilayvong Bouddakham. He was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour in the capital city of Vientiane.</p>

<p>Following that, he interacted with the Indian diaspora in Vientiane. He greeted Indian community members as they were excited to meet him outside the hotel in Laos.</p>

<p>Upon his arrival in Laos, PM Modi also witnessed an episode of Lao Ramayan - called Phalak Phalam performed by the prestigious Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang. Ramayan continues to be celebrated in Laos, along with several other facets of Indian culture and tradition that have been practised and preserved in Laos for centuries.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was the first leader to speak at the 19th East Asia Summit on Friday following the host and the incoming chair Lao PDR, has termed the Summit as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was the first leader to speak at the 19th East Asia Summit on Friday following the host and the incoming chair Lao PDR, has termed the Summit as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy. He stressed that the revival of Nalanda was India's commitment given at the East Asia Summit. India is marking 10 years of its Act East Policy. In his address at the East Asia Summit PM Modi said India has always supported ASEAN unity and centrality and that ASEAN is at the centre of ASEAN's Indo-Pacific vision as well as Quad cooperation. PM Modi said, "The revival of Nalanda was our commitment given in the East Asia Summit. In June this year, we have fulfilled it by inaugurating the new campus of Nalanda University. I invite all the countries present here to the Heads of Higher Education Conclave to be held in Nalanda. The East Asia Summit is an important pillar of India's Act East Policy." Also Read | UN Chief Guterres urges peace in Lebanon, addresses Myanmar crisis at ASEAN-UN summit in Laos He congratulated his Laos counterpart Sonexay Siphandone for organising East Asia Summit well and conveyed his best wishes to the upcoming chair Malaysia. He assured full support to Malaysia for their successful Presidency. In his remarks on West Asia, PM Modi stated that "everyone wants whether it is Eurasia or West Asia, peace and stability should be restored as soon as possible." "The conflicts going on in different parts of the world are having the most negative impact on countries of the Global South," he stated. PM Modi said that he has repeatedly said that "this is not an era of war" and the solutions to problems cannot be solved on the battlefield. He said it is necessary to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity and international laws. Also Read | Noel Tata, half-brother of late Ratan Tata, appointed chairman of Tata Trusts In his address, PM Modi stated, "I come from the land of Buddha, and I have repeatedly said that this is not the era of war. The problems cannot be solved on the battlefield. It is necessary to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity and international laws. Keeping a humanitarian approach, dialogue and diplomacy will have to be given priority. Fulfilling the responsibility of a 'Vishwabandhu', India will continue to make every possible contribution in this direction." Terming terrorism as a "serious challenge" to global peace, PM Modi stated, "Terrorism is also a serious challenge to global peace and security. To face this, forces believing in humanity will have to work together. And, mutual cooperation in the areas of cyber, maritime and space will also have to be strengthened." The East Asia Summit refers to the Meeting of Heads of States/Governments of the EAS participating countries which is convened annually. The EAS process was initiated in 2005 with the convening of the 1st East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. At its inception, the East Asia Summit comprised 16 participating countries, namely ASEAN Member States, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. In 2011, the US and Russia joined at the 6th East Asia Summit in Bali. At the Summit, the Prime Minister also called for a "peaceful" South China Sea and also stressed upon following UNCLOS, freedom of navigation and air space in the region. PM Modi also called for a code of conduct in the South China Sea that doesn't impinge on the rights of others. "Peace, security and stability of the South China Sea are in the interest of the entire Indo-Pacific region," he said. Earlier in the day, PM Modi met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the Summit and extended condolences on the loss of at least 14 lives in the US due to Hurricane Milton since Wednesday. On Thursday, PM Modi participated in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit. His visit is significant as this year marks a decade of India's Act East Policy. Sharing the details of PM Modi's visit to Laos, the MEA said on Thursday, "PM Modi has arrived in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. At the airport, he was received by senior ministers of the Laos government and accorded a ceremonial welcome but what was truly special was the warm and very significant, meaningful welcome that he received at the hotel." Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was welcomed by the Minister of Home Affairs of Laos, Vilayvong Bouddakham. He was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour in the capital city of Vientiane. Following that, he interacted with the Indian diaspora in Vientiane. He greeted Indian community members as they were excited to meet him outside the hotel in Laos. Upon his arrival in Laos, PM Modi also witnessed an episode of Lao Ramayan - called Phalak Phalam performed by the prestigious Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang. Ramayan continues to be celebrated in Laos, along with several other facets of Indian culture and tradition that have been practised and preserved in Laos for centuries. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

East Asia Summit an 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Modi

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi today while addressing the virtual World Economic Forum (WEF) said that 2.3 million people have been vaccinated in just 12 days with a steady drop in coronavirus cases.

Indian PM Modi addresses World Economic Forum's Davos Dialogue

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Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer

Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer

East Asia Summit an 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Modi

Indian PM Modi addresses World Economic Forum's Davos Dialogue