PM Modi Advocates for Early Review of India-ASEAN Trade Pact and Unity Against Terrorism

At the ASEAN summit, PM Modi urged an early review of the India-ASEAN trade pact, highlighting its potential for economic growth. He also stressed the need for unity in combating terrorism and declared 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a swift review of the India-ASEAN free trade agreement. He highlighted the growing strategic partnership between India and ASEAN as a stabilising force globally amid uncertainties. During the virtual India-ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, Modi emphasised the need for unity against terrorism, describing it as a significant threat to global peace.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Modi stressed that revisiting the ASEAN-India FTA could unlock economic potential and bolster regional cooperation. The Ministry of External Affairs noted his remarks on enhancing the economic relationship for mutual benefit. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim acknowledged progress in the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), aiming for its conclusion this year.

The AITIGA has been operational for over 15 years. Discussions at the summit focused on strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership, particularly in food security, supply chains, tourism, and education. Both sides also issued a statement on sustainable tourism, recognising its role in economic growth for ASEAN and India.

Maritime Cooperation and Defence

Modi announced 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, reaffirming India's support for ASEAN's central role in the Indo-Pacific. He proposed organising a second ASEAN-India defence ministers meeting and maritime exercise to ensure maritime security. India will continue to be a first responder in regional crises, enhancing disaster preparedness collaboration.

Additionally, Modi revealed plans to train 400 professionals in renewable energy to support the ASEAN power grid initiative. This was his 12th participation in the India-ASEAN summit. He congratulated Timor Leste on joining ASEAN as its 11th member, highlighting India's commitment to ASEAN's centrality and outlook in the Indo-Pacific.

Shared Values and Cultural Ties

India and ASEAN together represent nearly a quarter of the world's population. Modi noted their shared geography, historical ties, and values, calling them companions in the Global South. He emphasised their roles as commercial and cultural partners, with ASEAN being crucial to India's Act East Policy.

The prime minister highlighted ongoing cooperation in education, tourism, science and technology, health, green energy, and cyber security. He expressed confidence in preserving shared cultural heritage and strengthening people-to-people connections. Modi stated that both sides are advancing priorities like digital inclusion and food security amid global challenges.

Commitment to Global Stability

Modi reiterated India's firm support for ASEAN centrality and its vision for the Indo-Pacific region. Despite uncertainties, he noted steady progress in the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as a foundation for global stability. He expressed optimism about achieving goals like Viksit Bharat 2047 alongside ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

The theme of Inclusivity and Sustainability at the ASEAN Summit resonated with joint efforts on digital inclusion and resilient supply chains. Modi affirmed India's commitment to these priorities, highlighting cooperation in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, maritime security, and the blue economy.

The dialogue between India and ASEAN began with a sectoral partnership in 1992, evolving into a full dialogue partnership by December 1995 and reaching summit level by 2002. Their ties were elevated to a strategic partnership in 2012. In recent years, relations have significantly improved with a focus on trade, investment, security, and defence cooperation.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim remarked that the India-ASEAN relationship continues to be a stabilising force for mutual prosperity.

With inputs from PTI