PM Modi hails India’s global rise during ASEAN summit attended by Trump

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 47th ASEAN Summit 2025 virtually on Sunday, stressing that the 21st century belongs to India and the ASEAN nations. In his speech, he highlighted the growing strategic, economic, and cultural ties between India and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Modi said that India views ASEAN as a key partner in its Act East Policy and emphasized a vision of a shared, inclusive, and sustainable future for the region. He expressed confidence that initiatives like the ‘ASEAN Community Vision 2045’ and India’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ will contribute to a brighter future for humanity. The address coincided with US President Donald Trump’s presence at the venue, underlining India’s prominent role on the global stage and its strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Prime Minister detailed India’s collaboration with ASEAN in various areas. This includes disaster management, maritime security, and the development of the blue economy. He highlighted the importance of maritime cooperation, given the Indian Ocean’s role in trade, energy, and regional security. To strengthen this partnership, Modi announced that 2026 will be observed as the ‘Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation.’ This initiative is aimed at deepening ties in maritime operations, knowledge sharing, and joint exercises, which will benefit not only India and ASEAN but the broader region in terms of security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

India’s vision for regional growth and cooperation

Modi also emphasized economic and cultural cooperation between India and ASEAN nations. He spoke about expanding trade, investment, and technology partnerships, noting that stronger ties would create new opportunities for businesses and workers in both regions. He underlined that development must be inclusive, ensuring that benefits reach all communities while respecting local cultures and traditions. Modi’s remarks highlighted India’s commitment to working with ASEAN to tackle global challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, and regional security threats.

Cultural exchange is another key focus of India-ASEAN relations. Modi mentioned that historical ties, shared traditions, and people-to-people connections strengthen the foundation of this partnership. Educational programs, tourism initiatives, and joint research projects are all part of India’s efforts to deepen mutual understanding and goodwill. By combining strategic, economic, and cultural cooperation, India aims to foster a strong, resilient, and forward-looking partnership with ASEAN, preparing both regions to face future challenges collaboratively.

The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation’ reflects India’s focus on the Indian Ocean as a hub of regional connectivity, trade, and security. Modi stated that enhanced maritime cooperation would improve disaster response capabilities, safeguard shipping routes, and promote sustainable use of ocean resources. This initiative is designed to benefit all participating countries by enhancing economic growth, environmental protection, and regional stability. By working closely with ASEAN, India aims to establish a model of cooperation that balances economic development with security and sustainability.

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Strategic importance of India in the Indo-Pacific

Modi’s address highlighted India’s growing role in the Indo-Pacific region. He underlined that India is committed to ensuring peace, stability, and shared prosperity across Southeast Asia and beyond. Through initiatives in maritime security, trade facilitation, and disaster management, India seeks to build trust and collaboration with ASEAN nations. The Prime Minister noted that India’s engagement in regional infrastructure, shipping, and energy projects will create a strong foundation for mutual growth. By taking a proactive role, India is positioning itself as a reliable partner that contributes to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The speech also touched upon technology and innovation. Modi emphasized that digital connectivity, research collaborations, and knowledge-sharing platforms between India and ASEAN can accelerate development in critical areas such as smart cities, renewable energy, and digital economies. This partnership will also provide opportunities for startups and young entrepreneurs to engage in cross-border ventures, further strengthening economic integration and people-to-people links.

Looking ahead: a shared future

Modi’s address projected a vision of a shared, sustainable, and inclusive future for India and ASEAN. By combining economic growth, strategic collaboration, and cultural exchange, both regions can achieve long-term stability and prosperity. The ‘ASEAN Community Vision 2045’ and India’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ provide guiding frameworks for this cooperation, aiming to promote education, innovation, and regional security over the next two decades. Modi’s announcement of the ‘Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation’ adds a concrete step toward operationalizing this vision, especially in the maritime domain.

In conclusion, the Prime Minister’s virtual address underscored India’s commitment to ASEAN as a strategic partner. Through collaboration in trade, maritime security, disaster management, technology, and culture, India and ASEAN are working together to create a brighter future for their citizens. Modi’s speech reaffirmed that India is ready to play a leading role in shaping the 21st century alongside ASEAN nations, ensuring that growth is inclusive, sustainable, and mutually beneficial. This comprehensive approach to regional cooperation signals a new era of strong, forward-looking partnerships in Southeast Asia and beyond.