PM Modi to attend ASEAN, East Asia Summit meetings in Indonesia

PM Modi to attend ASEAN

Carrying forward the policy of Act East, the Prime Minister of India will attend the ASEAN, East Asia Summit meetings in Indonesia. The visit of the Prime Minister is just before the G20 meeting in India. As per reports Mr, Modi will attend the East Asia Summit on 6 and 7 September 2023. The 20 ASEAN India Summit will be held in Jakarta. Here in this article you can get all the information on ASEAN India Summit and PM Modi’s Visit to Indonesia.

PM Modi To ASEAN: Significance

The visit of the PM to Indonesia is significant on various grounds. It has diplomatic and as well as strategic significance.

1. The visit shows the importance of ASEAN – India relations in 21 century.
2. This also highlights the importance of ASEAN for India in diplomatic and Strategic Terms.
3. Highlights the commitment of India to the Act East Policy.
4. It is to be noted that Indonesia is a member of the G20 troika.
5. India is a natural ally and a trustable defence partner in Southeast Asia.
6. The partnership between ASEAN and India is at an all-time high with an elevation of partnership to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.
7. We must also remember India has always stood for mutual prosperity and law-based global order- that is seen as natural opposition against disruptive powers impacting South East Asia.
8. The economic relationship between the two has also thrived in the recent past. e.g. Indonesia is one of the largest palm oil suppliers to India.

This visit of PM Modi to ASEAN just before the G20 meeting in India, highlights the importance and respect that Indian Diplomacy has for ASEAN.

ASEAN

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries in Southeast Asia. Formed on August 8, 1967, in Bangkok, Thailand, ASEAN was established to promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability among its member nations. Here is a comprehensive overview of ASEAN:

Member Countries:

1. Indonesia
2. Malaysia
3. Singapore
4. Thailand
5. Philippines
6. Brunei
7. Vietnam
8. Laos
9. Myanmar (Burma)
10. Cambodia

ASEAN Summit Key Points

The ASEAN Summit is a vital biannual meeting for member nations of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It focuses on economic, political, security, and socio-cultural development in Southeast Asia. This summit also serves as a global conference, attracting world leaders to discuss international issues and foster cooperation.

ASEAN has expanded its connections through annual meetings with other nations, collectively known as ASEAN dialogue partners. ASEAN+3 includes China, Japan, and South Korea, while ASEAN+CER involves Australia and New Zealand.

The formal summit typically spans three days and follows this itinerary:

1. Internal meeting among ASEAN leaders.
2. Joint conference with foreign ministers of the ASEAN Regional Forum.
3. A meeting between ASEAN leaders and leaders from ASEAN+3 countries (China, Japan, South Korea).
4. A separate meeting with leaders from ASEAN+CER countries (Australia and New Zealand).

Over the years, the ASEAN Summit has been praised for its global impact and ability to address pressing issues effectively. It has become a significant platform for regional and international cooperation.

Overview of India-ASEAN- Relations

India’s formal engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) commenced in the early 1990s, signifying the growing importance of the region in India’s foreign policy. Here’s a brief overview of this engagement:

1992 – Sectoral Dialogue Partner: In 1992, India initiated its formal engagement with ASEAN as a “Sectoral Dialogue Partner.” This level of interaction involved discussions and cooperation in specific sectors, usually at the secretary level. These sectors could encompass a wide range of areas, such as trade, economics, politics, and culture.

1995 – Dialogue Partner: India’s engagement with ASEAN was elevated in 1995 when it was recognized as a “Dialogue Partner.” This upgrade signified a deeper and broader level of cooperation and dialogue between India and ASEAN member countries. As a Dialogue Partner, India had the opportunity to participate in various ASEAN-led forums, discussions, and initiatives.

Since becoming a Dialogue Partner, India has actively participated in ASEAN meetings, including the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the East Asia Summit (EAS). These forums have provided a platform for India to engage with ASEAN nations on issues of regional and global importance, such as security, trade, and economic cooperation.

Over the years, India’s engagement with ASEAN has grown stronger, with a focus on enhancing economic ties, promoting cultural exchanges, and strengthening security cooperation. India’s “Act East” policy has further emphasized the importance of ASEAN in India’s strategic and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region.