Engagement with Asean is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Before his departure to Jakarta for the India-Asean and East Asia summits, Modi highlighted the significance of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership entered into last year, which has injected new dynamism into the ties between India and Asean. Modi expressed his anticipation for discussing the future contours of the partnership with Asean leaders, as the relationship enters its fourth decade. He also emphasized the value of the East Asia Summit (EAS), which provides an opportunity to deliberate on crucial issues such as food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. Modi looks forward to exchanging views with other EAS leaders on practical cooperation measures to collectively address these global challenges.
Recalling his visit to Indonesia for the G20 summit in Bali last year, Modi expressed confidence that the current visit will further deepen India’s engagement with the Asean region. The relationship between India and Asean remains strategic and multidimensional, encompassing various sectors including political, security, economic, and cultural cooperation. The Act East policy aims to enhance India’s relations with the Asia-Pacific region and promote connectivity, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership serves as a framework to strengthen cooperation in areas such as maritime security, terrorism, defense, trade, and connectivity. India’s engagement with Asean has grown significantly over the years, leading to cooperation in various sectors and shared efforts in addressing regional and global challenges.
PM Modi’s visit to Indonesia for the India-Asean and East Asia summits signifies India’s commitment to further deepening its engagement with Asean. The visit provides a platform to strengthen strategic, political, economic, and cultural ties between India and Asean. With its growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region, India aims to play an active role in shaping regional affairs and contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity. As India continues to strengthen its ties with Asean, it recognizes the importance of collective efforts in addressing common challenges and promoting regional cooperation in various fields. The future contours of the India-Asean partnership hold immense potential for mutual growth, development, and prosperity, fostering a strong and resilient Indo-Pacific region.
