Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, underlining the growing strategic, cultural, and economic partnership between India and ASEAN. Emphasising shared history, values, and trade relations, he described ASEAN as a “crucial pillar” of India’s Act East Policy and reiterated India’s firm support for ASEAN centrality and its Indo-Pacific outlook.
During his address, PM Modi welcomed Timor-Leste as the newest member of ASEAN, expanding the bloc’s membership to 11 nations, and extended condolences on the passing of Thailand’s Queen Mother. He noted that India and ASEAN together represent nearly one-fourth of the world’s population, connected through geography, culture, and common values, which strengthen their partnership.
Highlighting the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Modi said it serves as a vital source of stability and growth amid global uncertainty. He underscored that cooperation between the two regions continues to deepen — from trade and cultural exchange to regional security — reinforcing their shared vision of peace, progress, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
