Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Vientiane, Laos, to attend the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. The visit reflects India’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace, stability, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on strengthening its partnership with ASEAN nations. Laos, serving as the ASEAN chair for 2024, hosted the high-level meetings, offering an opportunity for India to engage directly with regional leaders.
The summits came at a significant time, marking a decade of India’s “Act East” policy, aimed at enhancing economic, political, and cultural ties with Southeast Asia. During the ASEAN-India Summit, Modi emphasized the need to further the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and ASEAN, addressing key challenges such as regional stability, trade, and connectivity. The prime minister also underscored the shared cultural and historical heritage between India and Southeast Asia, with particular emphasis on Buddhism and the Ramayana.
At the East Asia Summit, which includes ASEAN nations and key partners such as the U.S., China, and Japan, leaders discussed pressing issues related to regional security and economic cooperation. Modi’s bilateral talks with Laos focused on improving connectivity and exploring opportunities for future collaboration, reinforcing India’s strategic role in the broader Indo-Pacific framework. His visit highlighted India’s proactive approach to strengthening ties with ASEAN while ensuring peace and prosperity in the region.