Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today called for collective action to tackle global economic uncertainty and political turmoil in other parts of the world, that impact the Asia Pacific region also. Addressing the 8th East Asia Summit in Brunei Darussalam today, Dr Singh said that prosperity for our peoples can be realized only by inculcating a cooperative temper. He emphasized on building infrastructure to further ASEAN connectivity and innovative means of financing the infrastructure needs.
The Prime Minister said the challenges of energy, food, health and human resource Development must also be met to reinforce growth and regional economic integration.
Dr. Singh said that the principles of maritime security, including the right of passage and unimpeded commerce are important. He said India welcomes the collective commitment by the concerned countries to work towards adoption of the code of conduct in the South China Sea on the basis of consensus.
On cooperative mechanisms in disaster management, Dr. Singh said India has initiated the process of establishing a Virtual Knowledge Center as well as a network of round the clock points of contact among the East Asia Summit countries. He also called for efforts to counter threats of piracy, international terrorism and drug trafficking.
The Prime Minister thanked the East Asia Summit participating countries for their support for establishment of the Nalanda University as an institution of excellence. He hoped that students and faculty from East Asia will participate in the exciting venture.
Our Correspondent reports that signing of Mou’s for Nalanda University has begun on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit.
According to official sources wide support has been expressed at the East Asia Summit for setting up of Nalanda University in Bihar as an international university and centre of excellence. Seven East Asia Summit members are going to sign MoUs with India today. The Chinese Prime Minister appreciated efforts at reviving Nalanda University and indicated willingness to sign the MoU. Australia has also announced that students under its new Colombo Plan scholarships could study at Nalanda University. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh met Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the sidelines of East Asia Summit. He will attend the 11th India-ASEAN Summit in a shortwhile.