PM Modi highlights strengthened ties at 21st ASEAN-India summit in Laos
- In Reports
- 05:17 PM, Oct 10, 2024
- Myind Staff
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 21st ASEAN-India Summit in Vientiane, Laos, where he emphasized how India’s "Act East" policy has bolstered relations between India and ASEAN countries over the past decade. He highlighted the growing importance of India-ASEAN cooperation, particularly in the face of global conflicts.
Speaking at the summit, PM Modi remarked, "In the last 10 years, our Act East policy has given fresh energy, direction, and momentum to the historic relations between India and ASEAN countries." He also referred to India’s Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative, launched in 1991, which prioritises engagement with ASEAN nations.
Modi outlined several initiatives India has undertaken to strengthen ties with the ASEAN region. He noted that maritime exercises were launched last year to promote regional security and stability. He pointed out that trade between India and ASEAN has nearly doubled in the last decade, reaching over $130 billion. In addition, India has established direct flight connections with seven ASEAN countries, with flights to Brunei starting soon.
India has also been expanding its diplomatic presence in the region, opening new consulates in countries like Timor Leste. Modi further emphasised the growing fintech connectivity, beginning with Singapore and now extending to other ASEAN nations.
On the human-centric approach of India’s cooperation with ASEAN, Modi spoke about the Nalanda University scholarship program, where 300 ASEAN students have benefitted. He also highlighted efforts to preserve shared heritage in countries like Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Indonesia. “Whether it's the Covid pandemic or natural disasters, we have always supported each other,” he said.
India has contributed $30 million to various ASEAN-related funds, including the India-ASEAN Science and Technology Fund, the Green Fund, and the Digital Fund, supporting collaboration across multiple areas.
Modi stressed the peaceful and cooperative nature of the relationship between India and ASEAN. He said, "We are peace-loving nations, respect each other’s sovereignty, and are committed to a bright future for our youth." He also expressed his belief that the 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN countries, especially in light of global conflicts and tensions. "Friendship, dialogue, and cooperation between India and ASEAN are critical during these times," he added.
Ahead of his departure to Vientiane, PM Modi expressed optimism about the visit and noted that 2024 marks a decade of India’s Act East policy. He added that India’s ties with ASEAN have grown across various sectors, from people-to-people connections to robust cooperation in trade, defence, and technology. He also highlighted those 2024 marks key anniversaries of India’s diplomatic relations with several ASEAN nations, including Brunei, the Philippines, and Singapore.
During his two-day visit to Laos, Modi was also set to attend the 19th East Asia Summit. He said that this forum would provide a valuable opportunity to discuss peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region while strengthening cultural and civilisational ties between India and Laos.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing confidence that his visit would further deepen India's engagement with ASEAN countries, continuing the strong partnership that has developed over the last decade.
Image source: The New Indian Express
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