Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday through a virtual message. He congratulated Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for successfully hosting the event and called ASEAN a “key pillar” of India’s Act East Policy.

Modi said, “India and ASEAN together represent almost a quarter of the world’s population. We do not just share geography; we are also connected by deep historical ties and shared values. We are fellow travelers of the Global South.”

Focus on Inclusivity and Sustainability

Speaking on the summit’s theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” the Prime Minister outlined India’s priorities in digital inclusion, food security, resilient supply chains, and disaster management. He noted that India has always supported ASEAN nations in difficult times.

“India has always stood strong with its ASEAN partners in every disaster. Our collaboration in HADR, sea security, and the blue economy is rapidly increasing. Seeing this, we declare 2026 as the ‘Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation,’” Modi said.

Strengthening Regional Cooperation

Modi also urged deeper cooperation in education, tourism, science and technology, health, green energy, and cybersecurity. He said both India and ASEAN must shape the global future together.

“The 21st century is our century. It is India and ASEAN’s century. I am confident that the aim of ‘ASEAN Community Vision 2045’ and ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ will develop a bright future for humanity,” he added.

Expanding Cultural and Strategic Bonds

The Prime Minister emphasized that India and ASEAN share not just economic and geographic ties but also rich cultural relations. He reaffirmed India’s strong backing for ASEAN centrality and its Indo-Pacific outlook.

“During these times of uncertainty, the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has continuously grown. Our strong partnership is emerging as the basis for global stability and development,” Modi said.

He also welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s newest member and expressed condolences on the passing of Thailand’s Queen Mother.