India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during high-level discussions held in Manila. The meeting focused on reviewing progress in bilateral cooperation and identifying new avenues for collaboration across sectors.
The discussions were co-chaired by Periasamy Kumaran, Secretary (East) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Leo M Herrera-Lim, Undersecretary for Policy at the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs. Officials from both sides assessed the implementation of key decisions taken during the ASEAN-India Summit held in 2025.
A major focus of the meeting was enhancing cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework, particularly as 2026 has been designated as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation. Both sides emphasised the importance of deepening engagement in areas such as connectivity, trade, security, and sustainable development.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Kumaran also engaged with representatives from leading think tanks and academic institutions, exchanging views on regional and global developments. He further held discussions with Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, where both sides reviewed the progress of India-Philippines relations and reaffirmed India’s support for ASEAN-led regional mechanisms.
The broader ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting also addressed key priorities under the Philippines’ chairmanship, including advancing ASEAN community-building efforts, strengthening external partnerships, and preparing for the upcoming ASEAN Summit scheduled later this year.
ASEAN continues to play a central role in promoting regional stability, economic integration, and multilateral cooperation in Southeast Asia. India’s engagement with the bloc has steadily expanded over the years, reflecting shared interests in maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
The latest round of discussions highlights the growing convergence between India and ASEAN on strategic and economic priorities, setting the stage for deeper collaboration in the years ahead.
