On October 26, 2025, during the 22nd ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that 2026 will be designated as the “Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation.” He emphasized the growing relationship between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in areas such as Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime security, and the blue economy.
In his address, PM Modi underscored the significance of inclusivity and sustainability, the current theme of the ASEAN Summit. He expressed India’s commitment to shared initiatives, which include digital inclusion and measures to ensure food security and resilient supply chains. He stated, “The 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN,” signifying the importance of their collaboration for mutual progress.
Modi welcomed Timor-Leste as the newest ASEAN member and extended condolences for the death of Thailand’s Queen Mother, Queen Sirikit. He acknowledged the deep historical ties shared by India and ASEAN, noting that together they represent a quarter of the global population and have both cultural and trade connections. He described ASEAN as a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy and reiterated India’s steadfast support for ASEAN’s centrality and its outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
Highlighting the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and ASEAN, PM Modi argued that such cooperation is crucial for regional peace and prosperity. He has participated in every ASEAN-India Summit since 2014, underscoring the importance of these diplomatic ties.
Overall, PM Modi’s statements during the summit reflect a strong commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation and deepening India-ASEAN relations across various sectors, with an eye towards fostering stability and development in the Indo-Pacific region.
