Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his “short but very productive visit” to Jakarta, Indonesia, where he participated in the ASEAN-India Summit and the East Asia Summit (EAS). The visit aimed to strengthen partnerships with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and EAS partners.
Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), announced the conclusion of PM Modi’s visit in a tweet, highlighting the forging of stronger partnerships with ASEAN and EAS partners.
During his visit, PM Modi emphasized the importance of amplifying the voice of the Global South, including within the G20. ASEAN leaders acknowledged PM Modi’s leadership in the G20 and extended their best wishes. India was also congratulated on the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission.
Comprehensive discussions between PM Modi and ASEAN leaders covered various areas, including connectivity, maritime cooperation, digital transformation, trade and the economy, environment, health, and traditional medicine. PM Modi proposed specific measures in each of these areas, which were detailed in a twelve-point proposal.
Two joint statements were issued between India and ASEAN, focusing on maritime cooperation and food security. The maritime cooperation statement addressed issues such as maritime safety and security, maritime domain awareness, disaster management, and the blue economy.
PM Modi announced the establishment of an ASEAN India Fund for Digital Future, aimed at enhancing financial connectivity between ASEAN and India. He also pledged support for ERIA (Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia), an ASEAN think tank that will serve as a knowledge partner to deepen ASEAN-India relations.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, underlining the centrality of ASEAN in the region.
Following his participation in the summits, PM Modi expressed gratitude to Indonesian President Joko Widodo and the Indonesian people for their warm welcome. He is currently in Jakarta and will return to India in preparation for the G20 Summit scheduled for September 8 to 10 in Delhi.
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Source: LIVE Mint
