India's Engagement at ASEAN Summit: Modi Virtual, Jaishankar in Malaysia

India's Representation at ASEAN Summit

• 💡 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually attend the 2025 ASEAN Summit, hosted by Malaysia, this afternoon at approximately 3:15 p.m.
• 🔑 External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India in person at the crucial gathering in Malaysia, also participating in the East Asia Summit.
• 🤝 EAM Jaishankar is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with foreign ministers from various ASEAN countries during his visit.

India's Commitment to ASEAN

• 🌱 India views ASEAN as an important pillar of the Indo-Pacific and a central platform for boosting economic ties and geopolitical purposes.
• 🎯 India strongly believes in and is committed to ASEAN centrality and neutrality in the region.
• 📜 The relationship between India and ASEAN is deep-rooted, encompassing shared culture, history, and strategic interests.

Historical Engagement and Priorities

• 🗓️ Prime Minister Modi has been a regular participant in ASEAN summits since 2014, underscoring India's consistent commitment.
• ⚠️ This will be only the second time PM Modi has not attended the summit in person since 2014, having previously skipped it in 2022 due to elections.
• 📈 A top priority for India at this summit is to revisit the 2010 trade agreement with ASEAN, aiming to address a significant trade deficit for India.
• 🤝 The summit provides a vital opportunity for Indian leadership to engage with leaders from ASEAN countries under one roof.