| Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) It is a regional intergovernmental organization founded in 1967 to promote political, economic, and social cooperation among its 10 member countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. ASEAN aims to enhance regional stability, economic growth, and cultural exchange, while also playing a central role in diplomacy within the Asia-Pacific region. |
- The Prime Minister of India visited Laos to attend the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit.
- Crucial summit amid ethnic conflict in Myanmar and tensions in the South China Sea.
- The visit marks a decade of India’s Act East Policy, with ASEAN being a central pillar of this policy and India’s Indo-Pacific vision.
- Laos, the current ASEAN chair, is hosting the event.
- The ASEAN summit is significant due to regional maritime tensions between the Philippines and China, and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, where ethnic groups are achieving victories against the military junta.
- The PM will also witness the Lao adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana, known locally as Phra Lak Phra Lam, reflecting cultural ties between India and Southeast Asia.
| East Asia Summit (EAS) It is a key regional forum, established in 2005, for dialogue and cooperation on strategic, political, and economic issues. India founding member. It includes 18 member countries, including ASEAN nations and major partners like the U.S., China, India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Australia, and New Zealand. The EAS focuses on promoting peace, stability, and regional cooperation. |
India-ASEAN Summit Agreements:
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):
- India will share its expertise in DPI to support ASEAN’s development.
- Both sides will explore cross-border payment system linkages through digital solutions.
Strategic Partnerships:
- Strengthening the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
- Reaffirming commitment to maritime safety, security, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, particularly in the South China Sea.
Digital Transformation and AI:
- Collaboration on fintech innovations, digital financial solutions, and cybersecurity to support the digital economy.
- Joint efforts in leveraging AI technologies responsibly to enhance infrastructure, risk management, and policy frameworks.
Regional Tensions and Cooperation:
- The summit takes place amidst tensions between the Philippines and China over maritime rights and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.
- India and Japan discussed enhancing cooperation in areas like infrastructure, connectivity, and defence during a bilateral meeting.
Dig Deeper: Locate ASEAN countries on the map and their capital from the Equator.
