Shillong, September 7: During his address at the ASEAN-India summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) serves as the focal point of India’s Act East Policy. He highlighted the importance of the ASEAN region in India’s Indo-Pacific initiative.
As per IANS, in his remarks, PM Modi noted that despite global uncertainties, the mutual cooperation between India and ASEAN is progressing steadily, underscoring the strength and resilience of their ties. He cited the theme of India’s G20 presidency: “‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
PM Modi expressed India’s support for the ASEAN’s perspective on the Indo-Pacific. He also emphasized the deep historical and geographical connections between India and ASEAN, as well as their shared values, regional integration, and joint commitment to peace, prosperity, and a multipolar world.
Highlighting the ASEAN as a center of growth and a key player in global development, PM Modi noted that the partnership between India and Indonesia, both co-chairing the ASEAN-India Summit, is a source of pride.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Indonesian President Joko Widodo upon his arrival at the summit. He also met with members of the Indian diaspora during his visit to Indonesia, where he participated in the ASEAN-India summit and the 18th East Asia Summit.