In the statement, he underscored the relevance of non-alignment in the post Cold War era and said India will play its part in strengthening the NAM.

'Non-alignment has been the bedrock of India's foreign policy since it was enunciated by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Non-alignment remains an article of faith for us,' Manmohan Singh said.

'In the post-Cold War era, when the world is no longer divided into two military blocs, the Non-aligned Movement has a renewed role to play in the emerging world order,' he said.

'The diversity and universality of the Non-Aligned Movement offers NAM a unique opportunity to address the challenges of today.'

The prime minister said 'India will play its part in helping NAM to regain its moral high ground to address issues which are of direct concern and relevance to developing countries such as sustainable development, climate change, food security, energy security, terrorism and reform of the architecture of international governance.'

Besides meeting the Pakistan prime minister, Manmohan Singh will hold meetings with other leaders including those of Bangladesh, Egypt, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.