PM Modi Highlights Rapid Growth Of India-ASEAN Cooperation; Announces 2026 As ‘ASEAN-India Year Of Maritime Cooperation’

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the rapid growth of India-ASEAN cooperation in areas such as Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime security, and the blue economy, and announced that 2026 will be celebrated as the ‘ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation’.

Speaking virtually at the opening of the ASEAN-India Summit, PM Modi stated that India has consistently supported its ASEAN partners during crises.

He emphasised the increasing collaboration in HADR, maritime security, and the blue economy, adding that 2026 will focus on maritime cooperation.

PM Modi also underlined efforts to boost bilateral engagement in education, tourism, science and technology, health, green energy, and cyber security, describing the 21st century as ‘India and ASEAN’s century’.

Key Highlights

Calling ASEAN a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy, the Prime Minister reaffirmed New Delhi’s support for ASEAN centrality.

He described the India-ASEAN partnership as ‘a powerful foundation for global stability and growth’.

PM Modi pointed to the long-standing historical ties and shared values between India and ASEAN.

He said the two regions together account for nearly a quarter of the world’s population, and that their relationship extends beyond geography to cultural and commercial connections.

The Prime Minister noted that India and ASEAN are ‘fellow travellers of the Global South’ and that their engagement is not only economic but also cultural.

Reiterating ASEAN’s importance in India’s Act East Policy, PM Modi noted, “ASEAN is the main pillar of India’s Act East Policy. India has always supported ASEAN Centrality and ASEAN’s outlook on the Indo-Pacific. During these times of uncertainty, the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has made steady progress, and our strong partnership is emerging as a powerful foundation for global stability and growth.”

The Prime Minister drew attention to this year’s ASEAN Summit theme, ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, noting that it reflects shared priorities such as digital inclusion, food security, and resilient supply chains in challenging times.

PM Modi congratulated Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for successfully hosting the ASEAN Summit.

He also expressed gratitude to Philippine President Bongbong Marcos for serving as India’s country coordinator and welcomed Timor-Leste as a new ASEAN member.

Finally, the Prime Minister offered condolences to the people and royal family of Thailand on the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit.

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