Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi, embarked on a visit to Indonesia to participate in the ASEAN-India Summit and East Asia Summit. The visit demonstrated India’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Southeast Asian nations.
Addressing the ASEAN-India Summit, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the profound historical and geographical connections shared between India and ASEAN nations. He extended congratulations to Indonesia for its effective leadership in chairing the ASEAN summit.
Modi underlined the pivotal role that ASEAN plays in global development, emphasizing its status as the epicenter of growth. He reiterated India’s firm support for the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific region.
“ASEAN relations are becoming stronger, and India stands shoulder to shoulder with ASEAN nations. Collaboration across all sectors is essential, making India’s Act East policy of paramount importance,” Prime Minister Modi stated.
With the South China Sea region facing significant challenges, Modi stressed the importance of ASEAN solidarity under Indonesia’s presidency. He emphasized the need for ASEAN to maintain unity during Code of Conduct negotiations with China, especially in these uncertain global times.
ASEAN has not only grown into a prominent and respected regional organization but also serves as a model of harmonious cooperation that strengthens its member nations.