World must reject link between religion and terrorism: Modi at East Asia Summit

Nay Pyi Taw: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted that the world community must reject any linkage between religion and terrorism while formulating a “genuinely international” partnership in the fight against all forms of terror acts.

In his intervention at the East Asia Summit, the prime minister also said that it should be ensured that cyber and space remain a source of connectivity and prosperity, and not new theatres of conflict.

Leaders of 18 countries including US President Barack Obama and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang are assembled at the one-day ninth East Asian Summit in the Myanmarese capital.

“We support the East Asia Summit Declaration on the Islamic State (terror group). At the same time, comprehensive response against terrorism requires a genuinely international partnership against all terrorism. Those who believe in humanity must come together. We should also reject any linkage between religion and terrorism,” he said.

“Challenges of terrorism and extremism have increased. There is close link with drug trafficking, arms smuggling and money laundering,” he added.

On economic issues, Modi pushed for a “balanced” Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which gives equal emphasis to goods and services, saying this could become a “springboard” for regional integration and prosperity.

Modi also conveyed India’s best wishes for the goal of creating an ASEAN Community in 2015.

“ASEAN’s success is an inspiration for broader integration in the Asia-Pacific region. India has great confidence in Asian centrality and leadership in pursuing that goal,” he added.

PTI