External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has called for a stronger and more comprehensive partnership between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), stressing the need for deeper cooperation in trade, connectivity, technology, maritime security, and resilient supply chains. Speaking during a high-level regional engagement, Jaishankar said the world is passing through an “extremely turbulent” period, making closer collaboration among trusted partners more important than ever.
The minister highlighted ASEAN’s central role in India’s Act East Policy and the broader Indo-Pacific vision, reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to expanding strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties with Southeast Asian nations.
Global Challenges Require Stronger Cooperation
Addressing delegates, Jaishankar noted that geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and disruptions to global supply chains have reshaped international relations.
He emphasised the importance of:
- Strengthening regional stability.
- Expanding economic cooperation.
- Building resilient supply chains.
- Promoting sustainable development.
- Enhancing technological collaboration.
- Supporting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
According to the minister, India and ASEAN can play a vital role in ensuring long-term regional prosperity.
Trade and Economic Partnership in Focus
The External Affairs Minister underlined the importance of increasing trade and investment between India and ASEAN.
Areas identified for greater cooperation include:
- Manufacturing.
- Digital economy.
- Green energy.
- Infrastructure development.
- Logistics and connectivity.
- Start-up ecosystems.
- Financial cooperation.
India continues to be one of ASEAN’s important economic partners, with bilateral trade growing steadily over the past decade.
Maritime Security and Indo-Pacific Vision
Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.
He highlighted cooperation in:
- Maritime security.
- Disaster relief.
- Humanitarian assistance.
- Coastal surveillance.
- Blue economy initiatives.
- Regional security dialogue.
The minister stressed that collaboration among regional partners is essential to address emerging security challenges.
Technology and Innovation
Technology was another key focus of Jaishankar’s address.
He encouraged greater cooperation in:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Semiconductor development.
- Digital public infrastructure.
- Cybersecurity.
- Innovation and research.
- Digital payments and fintech.
India believes technological collaboration can create new opportunities for businesses and strengthen regional economic resilience.
Connectivity and People-to-People Relations
India also reaffirmed its commitment to improving physical and digital connectivity with ASEAN member countries.
Priority areas include:
- Transport corridors.
- Air and maritime connectivity.
- Tourism promotion.
- Educational exchanges.
- Cultural cooperation.
- Skill development.
Officials said stronger connectivity would boost trade, investment, and tourism across the region.
ASEAN’s Importance for India
ASEAN remains a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy under the Act East Policy.
The partnership covers multiple sectors, including:
- Trade.
- Defence.
- Maritime cooperation.
- Healthcare.
- Education.
- Climate action.
- Energy security.
Both sides continue working to strengthen institutional cooperation through regular ministerial meetings and strategic dialogues.
Looking Ahead
India and ASEAN are expected to deepen collaboration through upcoming regional meetings, trade discussions, and strategic partnerships.
As geopolitical and economic challenges continue to evolve, both sides aim to strengthen cooperation in areas that promote regional stability, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.
Jaishankar reiterated that India remains committed to working closely with ASEAN to build a stronger, more resilient, and future-ready partnership for the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), official statements by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.
Original Report: Dr. S. Jaishankar called for stronger India–ASEAN cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity, maritime security, and regional stability amid global uncertainty.
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