INDIAN Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India Summit hosted by Indonesia, wherein he emphasized the significance of the bloc in India’s East policy as well as its critical role in the Indo-Pacific initiative.
“The ASEAN group stands as the epicenter of growth in ASEAN affairs, valuing the inclusion of all voices. ASEAN has played a significant role in global development, reflecting the ideals of unity, shared destiny, and a common future. As we assume the Indian G20 presidency, we recognize that the 21st century is the century of Asia,” Narendra Modi, PM of India, said.
The Indian PM also reiterated his country’s strong support for ASEAN and highlighted the resilience of their cooperation in various sectors.
Meanwhile, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said that while the cooperation between ASEAN and India has not yet yielded any substantial benefits for the people, it was important to enhance this partnership, particularly given the immense potential of the Indian Ocean.
“The honorable cooperation between ASEAN and India has yet to yield substantial benefits for the people. However, it is imperative that we work towards enhancing this partnership, particularly given the immense potential of the Indian Ocean,” Joko Widodo, President of Indonesia, said.
Widodo pointed out that the Indian Ocean’s vast expanse connects 33 countries with a combined population of 2.9-B people and contributes to one-fifth of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025.
The 43rd ASEAN Summit in Indonesia, the current chair of the ASEAN this year, includes leaders from Southeast Asian countries as well as non-ASEAN partners which took place from September 5 to 7.
