Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Indonesia on September 7 to participate in the ASEAN-India Summit and the East Asia Summit. The meetings hold particular significance as they mark the first ASEAN-India Summit since both sides elevated their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2022.
The summit’s agenda will encompass various areas of cooperation, with a primary focus on maritime security, cyber-security, digital economy, and emerging fields of partnership. It is anticipated that a new initiative addressing maritime security will be a pivotal outcome of the ASEAN-India Summit, further solidifying cooperation in this domain.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Indonesia reflects India’s commitment to bolstering its presence and engagement with Southeast Asian nations, aligning with its Act East policy and Indo-Pacific vision. The ASEAN-India partnership has evolved significantly in recent years, emphasizing collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, connectivity, and trade.
The ASEAN Summit will provide leaders with an opportunity to review the progress made in bilateral relations and chart the course for future cooperation. Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, stated that the relationship with ASEAN is a central pillar of India’s Act East policy and its vision for the broader Indo-Pacific region.
Both India and ASEAN share a common vision for the Indo-Pacific and are committed to enhancing synergy between ASEAN’s Indo-Pacific outlook and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
In 2022, India and ASEAN marked the 30th anniversary of their partnership. During this time, India has been keen on enhancing connectivity across physical, digital, and economic realms. Recent developments include the launch of direct flights between India and Indonesia and the establishment of real-time cross-border payment systems between India and Singapore.
Trade between India and ASEAN has grown significantly, reaching $131.5 billion during the 2022-23 fiscal year, accounting for over 11% of India’s total trade during that period. Both sides are working on reviewing the India-Asean trade in goods agreement to enhance trade facilitation and diversification, aiming to address existing asymmetries by 2025.
The East Asia Summit, which includes the 10 ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners, plays a vital role in strategic dialogue. India is committed to strengthening this platform to effectively address contemporary challenges and foster stronger partnerships.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Indonesia underscores India’s growing engagement with Southeast Asia and its commitment to fostering robust and mutually beneficial relations with ASEAN member countries.
Sources By Agencies
