PM Modi at East Asia Summit: Key Highlights and India's Growing Role

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first leader invited to address the East Asia Summit (EAS), underscoring India’s growing influence in the ASEAN region, according to sources from ANI. This invitation highlights India's pivotal role in ASEAN, as Modi is also recognized as the leader who has participated in the most number of EAS meetings, attending nine out of the 19 summits so far.

India's Commitment to ASEAN

During his speech at the summit, PM Modi emphasized India’s unwavering support for ASEAN unity, calling the region central to India’s Indo-Pacific vision. He pointed out the parallels between India’s "Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative" and ASEAN's "Outlook on the Indo-Pacific," stressing the importance of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region for peace and prosperity.

Call for Peace and Stability

PM Modi also addressed the global challenges, particularly in Eurasia and West Asia, and called for the restoration of peace and stability in these regions. He highlighted how conflicts are disproportionately affecting the Global South, advocating for a collective approach to resolve these issues.

Bilateral Meetings and Condolences

On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. During the meeting, he extended condolences for the 14 lives lost in Hurricane Milton, showing solidarity with the US during this time of tragedy.

ASEAN-India Summit

PM Modi's visit to Laos also included participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit on October 10, marking a decade of India's "Act East Policy." The summit reviewed the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between ASEAN and India, and Modi expressed optimism about the future direction of cooperation.

Ceremonial Welcome and Cultural Exchange

Upon arrival in Vientiane, Laos, PM Modi was warmly received by senior ministers and welcomed with a ceremonial Guard of Honour. He also had the opportunity to interact with the Indian diaspora in Laos and witnessed the Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang perform the Lao version of the Ramayan, “Phalak Phalam. " This cultural event highlighted the longstanding cultural ties between India and Laos.

PM Modi’s Vision for EAS

Before departing for Laos, PM Modi called the East Asia Summit an important platform to discuss the challenges to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. He reiterated India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with ASEAN and other participating nations in the summit.

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About the East Asia Summit

The East Asia Summit, which began in 2005 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, brings together the Heads of State/Government from participating countries. Initially consisting of 16 countries, including ASEAN Member States, India, China, Japan, and Australia, it expanded in 2011 to include the US and Russia. The EAS serves as a crucial forum for discussing regional and global peace, stability, and economic development issues.