PM Modi Attends 19th ASEAN Summit in Laos, Strengthening Ties in Southeast Asia!

On Thursday, October 10, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of the India-ASEAN friendship in a world increasingly facing conflict and tension. While addressing the 21st India-ASEAN Summit, Modi highlighted the critical role this partnership plays in promoting peace and collaboration. He recalled that it was 10 years ago when he introduced the "Act East Policy," and since then, this initiative has reinvigorated the historical ties between India and ASEAN nations, providing them with fresh energy, direction, and momentum. The summit comes at a crucial time for the region, marked by maritime disputes in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China, as well as ongoing unrest in Myanmar, where ethnic groups are in conflict with the military regime. Against this backdrop, the India-ASEAN partnership holds immense value. Modi expressed his confidence in the 21st century being an "Asian Century," asserting that both India and the ASEAN nations will be key players in this era. He noted that in a time of global challenges, the cooperation between India and ASEAN is not just a regional necessity but also has broader global implications. The summit underscored the shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and stability in the region.