Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (fourth, left) and other delegates at the 15th ASEAN-India Summit in November 2017. (Photo: VNA) New Delhi (VNA) – Enhancing ties in counter-terrorism, security and trade will top the agenda at the India-ASEAN Summit that will see the participation of leaders from all ten ASEAN countries to mark the 25th anniversary of India-ASEAN Dialogue Partnership.
The visit of the leaders of the ASEAN countries, who will be the chief guests at India’s Republic Day parade, is “unprecedented” and a “landmark” event, Secretary (East) of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Preeti Saran told reporters.
Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj’s visits to three ASEAN nations – Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore – last week turned out to be a curtain-raiser for the summit, Saran said.
In reply to the question whether security and counter-terrorism will be discussed, she said these issues “always remain on agenda”.
Discussions will also be held between the working groups of India and ASEAN to strengthen air and maritime connectivity and seek ways to step up cooperation in textiles.
Prior to the summit which will take place on January 25, India has hosted many events in celebration of the India-ASEAN Dialogue Partnership in multiple areas, from culture to trade.-VNA
VNA
