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Modi, Narendra

Asean and India: A Partnership for a Brighter Future

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his enthusiasm for India's partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) at the 21st Asean-India Summit in Vientiane. Modi stated that the Asian century belongs to India and the Asean bloc, highlighting the significance of their friendship, partnership, cooperation, and dialogue. He emphasized the importance of respecting each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty and their commitment to ensuring a bright future for their youth. The two sides have made significant progress in various areas, including trade, education, and cultural exchange.

Key Takeaways:

  • The bilateral trade between India and Asean has crossed USD 130 billion in the past decade, with direct flight connectivity to seven Asean nations and plans to launch direct flights to Brunei soon.
  • India has launched the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative in 2019, which complements the Asean Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, and has also established a Science and Technology Fund, Digital Fund, and Green Fund for cooperation in various fields.
  • India has contributed more than USD 30 million to these funds and has launched maritime exercises with Asean for regional peace and security.
  • The two countries have launched a Network of Universities and 300 students from Asean nations have received scholarships from Nalanda University in India.
  • India has also opened a new mission in Timor Leste, which joined the Asean grouping as the 11th member, and has initiated people-centric development partnerships.
  • The partnership has expanded across all fields, from underwater to space, and the two sides have elevated their ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.

Statistics:

  • USD 130 billion: The bilateral trade between India and Asean in the past decade.
  • USD 30 million: India's contribution to the Science and Technology, Digital, and Green Funds.
  • 300 students: The number of students from Asean nations who have received scholarships from Nalanda University in India.
  • 11: The number of Asean members, including Timor Leste.
  • 8 August 1967: The founding date of Asean.
  • 2022: The year India and Asean elevated their ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Sources:

  • United News of India (UNI RN)
  • HT Digital Content Services

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