PM Modi Highlights India’s Deepening Ties with ASEAN, Declares 2026 as Year of Maritime Cooperation

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday underscored the growing strength of the India-ASEAN partnership, calling the regional bloc a "key pillar" of India's Act East Policy. Virtually addressing the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, Modi reaffirmed New Delhi's commitment to shared growth, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region.

Strengthening Strategic and Cultural Bonds

PM Modi emphasized the historic, cultural, and economic linkages between India and Southeast Asia, noting that the two regions together represent nearly a quarter of the global population. "India and ASEAN share geography, culture, and values," he said, describing the partnership as essential for regional progress.

He also welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN's newest and 11th member, marking an important milestone for the bloc. Extending condolences on the passing of Thailand's Queen Mother, Modi highlighted India's cultural and emotional closeness with the region.

Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: A Force for Stability

Describing the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as a foundation for peace and growth, Modi said the relationship had evolved into a pillar of stability amid global uncertainties. Cooperation between India and ASEAN, he noted, continues to expand across areas such as trade, connectivity, cultural exchange, and regional security.

Focus on Inclusivity and Sustainability

Echoing the summit's theme of "Inclusivity and Sustainability", Modi reiterated India's support for ASEAN-led initiatives in digital inclusion, food security, disaster management, and supply chain resilience. He underlined India's active participation in maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and the blue economy, aligning with shared development goals.

2026 Declared as Year of Maritime Cooperation

In a key announcement, Modi declared 2026 as the "Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation", aimed at deepening collaboration in education, tourism, health, science and technology, green energy, and cybersecurity.

"The 21st century belongs to us - to India and ASEAN," the Prime Minister said, stressing the importance of preserving cultural heritage and enhancing people-to-people ties.

Shared Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Modi said that ASEAN's Community Vision 2045 and India's Viksit Bharat 2047 share a common aspiration for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.

From becoming an ASEAN dialogue partner in 1995 to forging a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Modi said India's engagement with ASEAN reflects its long-term commitment to regional cooperation and a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.