20th East Asia Summit (EAS)
The 20th East Asia Summit will be held from October 26 to 28 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This annual event involves 18 Asian countries and partners, initiated by ASEAN in 2005 to discuss regional stability and security.
Attendance
- Notable attendees include US President Donald Trump, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
- Chinese and Russian leaders will not attend but will be represented by senior officials.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the summit virtually.
India-ASEAN Relations
India's engagement with ASEAN began in 1992, becoming a dialogue partner in 1995 and joining the ASEAN Regional Forum in 1996. The ASEAN-India Summit of 2002 marked a significant elevation in ties.
Strategic Developments
- The ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit in 2012 upgraded their relationship to a "strategic partnership."
- The shift from "Look East" to "Act East" under PM Modi revitalized geopolitical and trade relations with ASEAN.
Significance of ASEAN for India
With rising Indo-Pacific tensions, ASEAN's role is crucial for regional stability. Modi's vision emphasizes a "Free, Open, and Inclusive Indo-Pacific."
Recent Developments
- The ASEAN-India ties were upgraded to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" in 2022.
- Leaders of all 10 ASEAN countries attended India's Republic Day parade in 2018, highlighting the strengthened relationship.
Regional Dynamics
ASEAN faces maritime disputes with China, emphasizing the need for enhanced ties with India. Trump's strained relations with Asian nations and a wary ASEAN leadership of US ties present a unique opportunity for India.
Conclusion
ASEAN, as a regional linchpin, and India, as a significant Indo-Pacific power, have a cooperative role in shaping Asia's future, as envisioned by Modi in 2018.
