PM Modi visits Laos for the 21st India-ASEAN Summit; says the 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Laos for the 21st India-ASEAN Summit reestablishes India’s diplomatic engagement with Southeast Asian nations. With a focus on enhancing connectivity and resilience, Modi announced a comprehensive 10-point action plan aimed at fortifying the India-ASEAN partnership. This initiative not only underscores the importance of regional collaboration in a time of global uncertainty but also highlights the potential for growth within the 21st-century landscape, which PM Modi asserts ‘belongs to India and ASEAN.’ PM Modi emphasised the critical need for friendship and cooperation among India and ASEAN countries, especially as tensions rise globally, with conflicts affecting various regions. He reiterated that India-ASEAN friendship, coordination dialogue and cooperation are essential at a time when several parts of the world are facing conflicts and tensions. The summit also coincides with the review of a decade of India’s Act East Policy, which has significantly contributed to the doubling of India-ASEAN trade to over USD 130 billion in the past ten years.
The Prime Minister’s vision for deeper ties with ASEAN encompasses several key areas. One of the important initiatives is the enhancement of connectivity, marked by the establishment of direct flight connections with seven ASEAN nations. This move aims to facilitate easier travel and trade, further integrating the economies of the region. In the realm of technology, PM Modi announced the launch of fintech connectivity with Singapore, setting a precedent for future collaborations across the ASEAN region. This initiative promotes technological advancement and financial inclusion, essential for emerging economies. Cultural ties are also a focal point, with efforts to restore shared heritage in Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Indonesia reflecting India’s commitment to preserving regional history and identity. Moreover, Modi stressed the urgency of completing the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AITIGA) review to unlock greater economic potential for both parties. He highlighted the significance of educational exchanges. Over 300 students from ASEAN countries have benefitted from scholarships at Nalanda University, fostering deeper educational ties. As regional tensions persist, especially concerning maritime disputes in the South China Sea and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, PM Modi’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative underscores the need for collaborative efforts in ensuring regional stability and security. This approach, along with a commitment to humanitarian cooperation, highlights India’s readiness to support ASEAN nations in times of natural disasters. India’s vision is firmly anchored in a people-centric approach, indicating a commitment to sustainable development that addresses the needs and aspirations of citizens across both regions. Indeed India and ASEAN nations have much in common; they share heritage and values which date backs to centuries. It is time to revive them.
