Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his opening remarks at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, reaffirming India’s commitment to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN nations and declaring 2026 as the ‘ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation’.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi congratulated Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for ASEAN’s successful chairmanship, thanked President Marcos of the Philippines for his effective role as India’s country coordinator, and welcomed Timor-Leste as the bloc’s newest member.
He also expressed condolences on behalf of the people of India to the Royal Family and citizens of Thailand on the demise of the Queen Mother.
PM Modi emphasized that India and ASEAN together represent nearly one-fourth of the global population, bound not just by geography but by deep historical and cultural ties.
“We are partners not only in trade but also in shared values. ASEAN is central to India’s Act East Policy and our vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific,” he said.
Despite global uncertainty, the Prime Minister noted that the India–ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership continues to progress steadily, serving as a foundation of stability and development in the region.
Highlighting the summit’s theme — “Inclusivity and Sustainability” — PM Modi said these values are visible in joint initiatives for digital inclusion, food security, and resilient supply chains.
He announced that India and ASEAN will observe 2026 as the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation, further strengthening ties in HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief), maritime security, and blue economy.
PM Modi also underscored growing collaboration in education, tourism, science & technology, health, green energy, and cybersecurity, affirming India’s resolve to preserve the shared cultural heritage and promote stronger people-to-people connections.
