Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a powerful virtual address at the ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, has positioned India as the definitive voice for the Global South, marking a significant milestone in New Delhi's diplomatic outreach. The Prime Minister's participation underscores India's growing influence in shaping the future of developing nations across the world.
A New Chapter in India-ASEAN Partnership
During his landmark address, PM Modi emphasized the deepening strategic partnership between India and ASEAN nations, highlighting how this relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership. The Prime Minister stressed that collaboration between India and ASEAN is crucial for building a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region – a clear message about maintaining regional stability and sovereignty.
Global South Takes Center Stage
In what many analysts are calling a diplomatic masterstroke, PM Modi brought the concerns of the Global South to the forefront of international discourse. "India has consistently raised the voice of developing countries and will continue to do so," the Prime Minister affirmed, reinforcing India's role as the natural leader for emerging economies seeking greater representation in global institutions.
Building on G20 Success
The ASEAN summit provided the perfect platform for India to build upon its successful G20 presidency, where New Delhi successfully championed the cause of the Global South. PM Modi highlighted how the recent G20 outcomes have created new pathways for cooperation and development among developing nations, with India playing the crucial bridging role between developed and developing economies.
Comprehensive Partnership Framework
The summit witnessed significant progress across multiple domains:
- Connectivity Enhancement: Strengthening physical, digital, and people-to-people connectivity initiatives
- Economic Cooperation: Expanding trade and investment opportunities between India and ASEAN nations
- Security Collaboration: Enhancing maritime security and counter-terrorism cooperation
- Cultural Exchange: Deepening cultural and educational ties across the region
Strategic Positioning in Indo-Pacific
PM Modi's address comes at a crucial juncture in global geopolitics, with India emerging as a key stabilizing force in the Indo-Pacific region. The Prime Minister's vision for the region emphasizes mutual respect, shared prosperity, and collective security – principles that resonate strongly with ASEAN member states seeking balanced international relationships.
This summit marks another step in India's carefully calibrated foreign policy that balances strategic autonomy with proactive international engagement, positioning New Delhi as an indispensable partner in shaping the emerging world order.
