India-ASEAN Partnership: Deepening Strategic and Economic Cooperation
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (ASEAN, East Asia Summit, AITIGA, India's Act East Policy, Timor-Leste, Global South).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): "Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests" (CORE TOPIC).
General Studies Paper 3 (Security/Economy): Maritime security, resilient supply chains, trade agreements.
Key Highlights from the News
22nd ASEAN-India summit was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the summit virtually. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attended in person.
The Prime Minister assessed that the India-ASEAN partnership is steadily progressing as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
2026 was declared the "ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation".
Efforts to finalize the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to reduce trade barriers between the two sides were discussed.
The Prime Minister described ASEAN nations as India's "cultural partner" and "companions in the Global South".
India welcomed Timor-Leste, the newest member of ASEAN.
The ASEAN-India Plan of Action 2026-2030 will be implemented to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, education, food security, technology, and cyber security.
India's External Affairs Minister will also attend the East Asia Summit and address terrorism.
COMMENTS