Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 22nd India-ASEAN summit virtually, emphasizing the deep-rooted connections and shared future between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Modi affirmed that the 21st century is a shared era of opportunity for both India and ASEAN, underscoring their roles as "fellow travellers of the Global South".

The Prime Minister highlighted that India and ASEAN share not only geographical proximity but also deep historical ties and common values. He reiterated India's unwavering support for ASEAN's centrality and its outlook on the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing that ASEAN is a cornerstone of India's "Act East Policy".

During his address at the summit in Malaysia, whose theme was 'inclusivity and sustainability', Modi stated that this theme is clearly reflected in the joint efforts of nations, whether it be digital inclusion, ensuring food security or maintaining resilient supply chains amidst global challenges. He asserted India's full support for these priorities and its commitment to advancing them in collaboration with ASEAN.

In a significant announcement, Modi declared 2026 as the 'Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation'. This declaration aims to strengthen cooperation in maritime security, marine science, the blue economy, and maritime connectivity. As a tangible step, India has proposed to organize the second ASEAN-India defense ministers' meeting and the second ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise.

Modi noted the growing cooperation between India and ASEAN in various sectors, including Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime security, and the blue economy. He also mentioned the steady advancement of collaboration in education, tourism, science and technology, health, green energy, and cyber security. Furthermore, he expressed India's commitment to working with ASEAN to preserve shared cultural heritage and strengthen people-to-people ties.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the significant representation of India and ASEAN, comprising nearly one-fourth of the world's population. He expressed confidence that the goals of 'ASEAN Community Vision 2045' and 'Viksit Bharat 2047' would create a brighter and more prosperous future for humanity.

Several ASEAN member states have proposed that India enhance regional connectivity, including the completion and operationalization of the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway, with a view to extending the route to Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Echoing the sentiment of strengthened partnership, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed ASEAN's hope to conclude the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) by the end of the year. He also highlighted Malaysia's special relationship with India, owing to the significant presence of ethnic Indians in Malaysia and the strong ties in trade, investments, collaboration, and education.

The summit also served as a platform for discussing regional cooperation and addressing global challenges. ASEAN and India aim to play a crucial role in promoting regional and interregional cooperation, fostering solidarity and multilateralism, and contributing to peace and sustainable development.