Jakarta: In a significant address during the 20th ASEAN-India Summit held in Jakarta, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India's unwavering support for the centrality of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the imperative of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. The Prime Minister's remarks hold paramount importance in the backdrop of escalating concerns over China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, an issue that has gripped the ASEAN nations.
The summit, held on Thursday, brought together leaders from the 10-member ASEAN bloc, reinforcing India's commitment to enhancing ties with its eastern neighbours and bolstering its 'Act East' policy. PM Modi underscored the pivotal role of ASEAN in India's overarching 'Act East' policy, emphasizing the organization's integral role within India's Indo-Pacific strategy.
Prime Minister Modi stressed the need for an Indo-Pacific region where international law is applied uniformly to all countries. "The need of the hour is an Indo-Pacific where international law applies equally to all countries," he stated unequivocally. This statement implicitly addressed concerns about China's actions in the South China Sea, where disputes have arisen over territorial claims and navigational rights.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister did not shy away from acknowledging the complex global scenario. He identified terrorism, extremism, and geopolitical conflicts as major challenges faced by the international community, making it essential for nations to come together in addressing these shared concerns. In doing so, he reiterated India's commitment to multilateralism and a rules-based international order as fundamental tools for confronting these global challenges.
Highlighting the historical and geographical connections between India and ASEAN, PM Modi emphasized that these nations also shared common values such as democracy, secularism, and respect for human rights. He added that along with these shared values, regional unity, peace, prosperity, and mutual trust in a multipolar world bound them together. This sentiment underscores the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties that exist between India and ASEAN nations.
The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and ASEAN was also brought to the forefront by the Prime Minister. He noted that this partnership had injected new dynamism into relations between the two entities, opening doors for greater collaboration and mutual growth.
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"The ASEAN-India Summit is testament to our shared vision and collaboration for a better future. We look forward to working together in futuristic sectors which will enhance human progress," PM Modi affirmed, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has characterized the ASEAN-India relationship.
China's presence and influence in the ASEAN region did not go unmentioned. Just a day before PM Modi's address, Chinese Premier Li Qiang warned against a 'new Cold War' while addressing the summit. He emphasized the importance of avoiding bloc confrontations and taking sides in international disputes.
PM Modi's firm stance on supporting ASEAN centrality and advocating for an Indo-Pacific governed by international law stands in contrast to China's position. This divergence of views reflects the ongoing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific region, making the ASEAN-India Summit a pivotal platform for diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.
The timing of PM Modi's statements in Jakarta is also noteworthy, as they precede the G20 Leaders' Summit scheduled to take place in New Delhi on Saturday, where Chinese President Xi Jinping will be notably absent. This absence further underscores the complex dynamics in the region, with both India and China vying for influence and support among ASEAN nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address at the ASEAN-India Summit reaffirms India's commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN nations and supporting their centrality in the region. His emphasis on a rules-based Indo-Pacific order and the common values shared between India and ASEAN nations signals India's intention to play a significant role in the evolving geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific. The summit's discussions and outcomes will undoubtedly contribute to shaping the future of this strategically vital region.
