Indian PM: ASEAN’s centrality is India’s important priority

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Photo: AFP/VNA)

New Delhi (VNA) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that ties between India and ASEAN will keep strengthening in the future based on common values, affirming that ASEAN’s central role is always an important priority of New Delhi.

Addressing the 18th ASEAN-India Summit on October 28, Modi said India always sees the unity and centrality of ASEAN as a priority. The lively relations of India and ASEAN for thousands of years is reflected in shared values, languages, traditions, architecture, scriptures, culture, and food.

He added that India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and ASEAN’s Outlook for the Indo-Pacific are the framework for their shared vision and mutual cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Noting that the year 2022 will mark the 30th anniversary of the India-ASEAN partnership, Modi said the important milestone will be celebrated as the “ASEAN-India Friendship Year”.

He stressed that India pledges to further deepen ties with Cambodia – alternate ASEAN Chair next year, and Singapore – coordinator of ASEAN-India partnership./.