PM Modi addresses ASEAN-India Summit: ‘21st century is the century of India and ASEAN countries’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Oct 10) spoke at the ASEAN-India Summit held in Vientiane, Laos, where he stressed how India’s Act East policy has strengthened its longstanding ties with ASEAN nations. He also highlighted the importance of India-ASEAN collaboration, especially amid current global challenges.

“I had announced India’s Act-East policy. In the last decade, this policy has given new energy, direction and momentum to the historic relations between India and ASEAN countries. Giving prominence to ASEAN, in 1991 we launched the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative,” Modi said during the 21st ASEAN-India Summit.

“Efforts have been made to preserve shared heritage and heritage in Lao, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia. Whether it is the Covid pandemic or natural disaster, we have helped each other,” PM Modi said.

“Last year, maritime exercises for regional security and stability were started. In the last 10 years, our trade with the ASEAN region has almost doubled to over 130 billion dollars. Today, India has direct flight connectivity with 7 ASEAN countries and soon direct flights will start with Brunei as well,” he added.

“We are peace-loving countries, respect each other’s national integrity and sovereignty and we are committed to the bright future of our youth. I believe that the 21st century is the century of India and ASEAN countries. Today, when there is a situation of conflict and tension in many parts of the world, the friendship, cooperation, dialogue and cooperation of India and ASEAN are very important,” Modi continued.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Laos for a two-day visit to take part in the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits. His visit aims to strengthen ties with member countries, particularly in the fields of connectivity and digital public infrastructure.

Upon landing in Vientiane, Modi took part in a traditional blessing ceremony led by senior Buddhist monks. Following this, he shared on social media, “Met respected monks and spiritual leaders in Lao PDR, who were happy to see the honour being given to Pali by the Indian people. I am grateful to them for their blessings.”

During his visit, the Prime Minister also attended an exhibition showcasing the restoration and conservation efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India in Laos. Additionally, he watched a performance of the Lao Ramayana, known locally as Phalak Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram, by the renowned Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang.

(With inputs from agencies)