The East Asia Summit has commenced in Indonesia, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India participating in the ASEAN-India Summit earlier today. During his brief five-minute address, PM Modi emphasized that the 21st century belongs to Asia and highlighted the mantra of "One Earth, One Family, One Future."
PM Modi further stated, "India holds a central position in the Act East Policy of Asia. ASEAN is a key pillar of India's Indo-Pacific Initiative. Amid global uncertainties, our mutual cooperation is growing, and our partnership is entering its fourth decade."
He also congratulated President Joko Widodo of Indonesia for hosting this prestigious summit. The ASEAN Summit, which began on September 5, will run until September 8, and it includes Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, Brunei, Thailand, Laos, and Singapore.
The summit holds significant importance as it facilitates comprehensive strategic partnerships between India and ASEAN countries. This strengthens defense, economic, and technological interests while helping counterbalance China's influence in the region.
In a recent development, China released a map that disputed territorial claims with several ASEAN countries. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Taiwan protested against China's controversial map, calling for adherence to international law in the South China Sea.
The map delineated a U-shaped line extending 1,500 kilometers south of Hainan Island, encroaching upon the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, and Indonesia. Additionally, the map included a dashed line, incorporating Taiwan within China's territory, mirroring a map issued in 1948.
Last year, India signed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with ASEAN countries, marking a significant milestone in its relations with the region. The visit by PM Modi is crucial in further strengthening these bonds and responding to China's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific.
In Jakarta, ASEAN leaders from China, Japan, and South Korea held discussions on the need to avert a new cold war and resolve ongoing tensions in the region. Prime Minister Li Keqiang of China emphasized the importance of understanding and cooperation among nations to prevent a new cold war.
As the summit unfolds, the world watches with keen interest as ASEAN nations seek to foster dialogue, collaboration, and understanding among themselves and with major global powers, including India and the United States, to ensure regional stability and economic growth.
