India–ASEAN Ties Making Steady Progress
Analysis
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 22nd ASEAN–India Summit virtually, held in Kuala Lumpur.
- He stated that despite an “era of uncertainties”, the India–ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership continues to make steady progress and contributes to global stability and development.
- ASEAN was described as a “cultural partner” of India, underlining historical ties, shared values, and people-to-people connections.
- PM Modi welcomed Timor-Leste as the newest (11th) member of ASEAN and reaffirmed India’s support for its human development.
- He highlighted that India and ASEAN together account for nearly one-fourth of the global population, strengthening their collective global relevance.
- The Prime Minister reiterated India’s support for ASEAN Unity, ASEAN Centrality, and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
- Emphasis was laid on the early review of the ASEAN–India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to unlock the full economic potential of the partnership.
- Terrorism was identified as a serious global challenge, with a call for unity in combating it.
- India’s role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in the ASEAN region was reaffirmed.
- 2026 was announced as the “ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation”, indicating enhanced cooperation in maritime security and the blue economy.
- Cooperation was also highlighted in areas such as education, tourism, science and technology, health, green energy, cybersecurity, and resilient supply chains.
Necessary Static Part
- ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)
- Established in 1967 (Bangkok Declaration).
- Current members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste.
- India–ASEAN Relations
- Elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.
- Guided by India’s Act East Policy.
- AITIGA
- Key economic pillar of India–ASEAN engagement, covering trade in goods.
Updated – 26 Oct 2025; 05:40 PM IST | News Source:
The Hindu