PM Modi asserts, a cohesive and responsive ASEAN important for security and growth for all

New Delhi, November 12:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that ASEAN has been the core target of India’s Act East Policy.

Addressing the 17th ASEAN-India Summit this evening, Mr Modi stressed that India believes that a cohesive and responsive ASEAN is important for security and growth for all. He said, India and ASEAN’s partnership is interrelated by traditions and geography.

The Prime Minister said, enhancing connectivity on all fronts between India and ASEAN, be it physical, economic, social, digital, financial, maritime – is a major priority for India.  He added that India and ASEAN have come closer in all these areas in the last few years.

Briefing media virtually this evening, Secretary (East) External Affairs Ministry Riva Ganguly Das said, Prime Minister Modi welcomed ASEAN’s initiatives to fight the COVID 19 pandemic and announced a contribution of one million dollars to COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund. She said, the Prime Minister has stressed on leveraging strong ASEAN-India ties in the fight against the pandemic.

Mr Modi also emphasized the importance of cooperation and regular exchanges in the field of traditional medicines as a source of healthy and holistic living. The Prime Minister stressed on the importance of greater physical and digital connectivity between ASEAN and India.  He reiterated India’s offer of one billion dollar Line of Credit to support ASEAN connectivity.

ASEAN India engagement has evolved over the years into a deep, robust, and multifaceted partnership. Secretary (East) said the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening convergence between India’s Indo Pacific Ocean’s initiative and ASEAN outlook on Indo Pacific to ensure a free, open, inclusive and rules based Indo Pacific region.