Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, highlighting the deep-rooted historical and geographical connections between India and ASEAN. The summit focuses on bolstering regional partnerships and shaping the post-COVID world order. In his address at the ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, PM emphasized the profound historical and geographical ties that bind India and ASEAN. Hosted by Indonesia, the summit brought together leaders from across Southeast Asia to discuss regional partnerships, security, and the evolving global landscape.
PM underscored the enduring connection between India and ASEAN, stating, “Our partnership is entering its fourth decade. Our history and geography naturally unite India and ASEAN.” He emphasized that alongside these inherent connections, shared values, regional unity, peace, prosperity, and a mutual belief in a multipolar world further fortify the relationship between the two entities.
ASEAN as the Central Pillar of India’s Act East Policy
Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN as a central pillar of its Act East Policy, aimed at enhancing engagement with East and Southeast Asian regions. He stressed that India unequivocally supports ASEAN’s centrality and its perspective on the Indo-Pacific, aligning with the shared objective of nurturing peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.
The Prime Minister characterized the 21st century as Asia’s century, emphasizing the imperative of constructing a rule-based global order in the post-COVID era. He highlighted the need for collective endeavors to promote human welfare and the advancement of a free and open Indo-Pacific, underlining that amplifying the voice of the Global South serves the mutual interest of all nations.
PM Modi celebrated the ongoing progress in bilateral cooperation between India and ASEAN, even amid the backdrop of global uncertainties. He described this resilience as a testament to the robustness of their relationship.
This year’s ASEAN Summit theme, ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth,’ underscores the critical role played by ASEAN in global development. The Prime Minister emphasized that ASEAN’s uniqueness lies in its inclusiveness, where every member’s voice is valued, reflecting the democratic principles that bind the member states.
India’s G-20 Presidency and the Theme of Unity
Prime Minister Modi also noted that the theme of India’s G-20 Presidency, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – ‘one earth, one family, one future,’ aligns with the sentiment of unity and collaboration expressed at the ASEAN-India Summit. This theme reflects India’s commitment to fostering a cooperative global environment.
Following the ASEAN-India Summit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to participate in the 18th East Asia Summit. His visit to Indonesia holds great significance as India and ASEAN recently elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2022.
Upon his arrival in Jakarta, Prime Minister Modi received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from members of the Indian Diaspora and locals. Many expressed admiration for his down-to-earth demeanor as he interacted with them, shaking hands and exchanging greetings.
G20 Summit on the Horizon
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Indonesia is a brief interlude before he returns to Delhi for the G20 Summit scheduled for September 9-10. The G20 Summit will see major global leaders coming together under India’s leadership to discuss critical global issues and chart a path towards a more equitable and sustainable world order.
The ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta serves as a pivotal platform for reiterating India’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships, fostering cooperation, and advocating for a rules-based world order. Prime Minister Modi’s address underscores India’s dedication to the principles of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. As the world watches these diplomatic engagements unfold, the emphasis on unity, cooperation, and shared values remains at the forefront of global discourse.
In an ever-changing global landscape, the ASEAN-India Summit provides a beacon of hope for enhanced regional cooperation.
