Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a compelling virtual address at the 47th ASEAN Summit 2025 on Sunday, underscoring that the 21st century represents a shared era of growth and leadership for India and the ASEAN nations. He described the partnership as pivotal to the region’s progress and highlighted that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations stands as a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy.
In his speech, the Prime Minister stated, “The 21st century is our century — it belongs to India and ASEAN. The shared vision of ‘ASEAN Community Vision 2045’ and ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ will together shape a prosperous future for humanity.” His remarks reflected India’s growing strategic and cultural alignment with the 10-member ASEAN bloc, reinforcing New Delhi’s commitment to collective development and regional stability.
A key highlight of his address was the announcement that 2026 will be celebrated as the Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation, marking a significant step toward expanding collaboration across the Indian Ocean. The initiative aims to strengthen maritime security, promote sustainable trade, and deepen connectivity in the blue economy — an area both sides view as vital for long-term growth.
Modi also emphasized the importance of building an inclusive and sustainable regional order through enhanced cooperation in disaster management, security frameworks, and economic integration. His remarks showcased India’s continued focus on fostering mutual trust and expanding partnerships under the Act East Policy.
Ahead of the summit, Prime Minister Modi held a warm conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently chairs ASEAN for 2025. Sharing the exchange on X, Modi congratulated Ibrahim on Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and extended best wishes for the success of the summit. The Philippines is set to take over the chairmanship in 2026.
India’s engagement with ASEAN dates back to 1992, beginning as a Sectoral Dialogue Partner and progressing to a full Dialogue Partner by 1995. Modi has attended every ASEAN-India Summit since 2014, except for the 2022 edition, further highlighting India’s enduring diplomatic commitment to the bloc.
Reflecting on this long-standing relationship, Modi’s address reiterated India’s vision of deeper integration and cooperation with Southeast Asia—anchored in shared prosperity, maritime partnership, and a collective vision for a stronger Indo-Pacific region.
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