10 October, 2024;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a significant two-day visit to Laos, where he is set to participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. This visit underscores India’s growing engagement with Southeast Asia, highlighting its commitment to strengthening ties with the region, especially under the “Act East” policy that has been a cornerstone of Modi’s foreign relations approach.
ASEAN-India Summit: Strengthening Regional Partnerships
The 21st ASEAN-India Summit will serve as an important platform to bolster India’s relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which includes countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Singapore. The summit is expected to focus on enhancing trade, connectivity, and strategic cooperation. Given the critical geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region, the summit will also likely address security issues, maritime cooperation, and the joint efforts to maintain peace in the South China Sea.
India’s growing economic and strategic footprint in Southeast Asia aligns with ASEAN’s vision of a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, making this summit pivotal for regional stability and prosperity.
19th East Asia Summit: Multilateral Diplomacy at Its Core
In addition to the ASEAN-India Summit, Modi will also be attending the 19th East Asia Summit, a multilateral forum bringing together 18 nations, including major global players such as China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. The East Asia Summit is a crucial platform for dialogue on regional and international issues, particularly regarding economic integration, maritime security, and sustainable development.
This year, the summit takes on special significance due to the participation of key leaders from across Asia and beyond, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Japan’s new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. Their presence suggests that the summit will feature discussions on pressing global issues, such as the impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the stability of supply chains, and the evolving security architecture in the Indo-Pacific.
Key Agendas and Strategic Interests
India’s focus during these summits will likely revolve around deepening its strategic partnerships and furthering its economic engagements in Southeast Asia. Prime Minister Modi is expected to emphasize areas such as digital connectivity, defense collaboration, and green energy initiatives, aligning with India’s broader vision for a sustainable and secure Indo-Pacific.
With the participation of leaders from China, Japan, and South Korea, there may also be discussions surrounding the global economic recovery post-pandemic, climate action, and geopolitical tensions, particularly in the South China Sea. India’s stance on these issues, especially in light of its recent engagements with QUAD partners (Australia, Japan, and the U.S.), could shape the tone of regional cooperation.
India’s “Act East” Policy in Focus
Modi’s visit to Laos highlights the growing importance of Southeast Asia in India’s foreign policy. Under the “Act East” policy, India has been increasing its diplomatic, trade, and defense ties with ASEAN nations. This engagement has become even more vital as India seeks to counterbalance China’s influence in the region while promoting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
India’s contributions to ASEAN-led mechanisms and its role in the Indo-Pacific narrative have been widely appreciated. During the summit, Modi is expected to underscore India’s commitment to a rules-based order and collaborative efforts in ensuring peace, prosperity, and security in the region.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Laos for the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit marks a significant step in India’s regional diplomacy. With key global leaders present, the summits will offer a critical opportunity for India to strengthen its ties with ASEAN and other key partners, while positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific.
