In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated virtually in the 47th ASEAN Summit on Wednesday, marking India's continued commitment to strengthening ties with Southeast Asian nations. The high-level meeting saw leaders from across the region discussing crucial regional and global matters.
Prior to the summit, PM Modi held a substantive telephone conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, where both leaders explored avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship between their nations. The discussion covered multiple dimensions of cooperation, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between India and Malaysia.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
The virtual participation in the ASEAN Summit underscores India's 'Act East Policy' in action, demonstrating New Delhi's unwavering focus on deepening engagement with ASEAN member countries. This marks another milestone in India's proactive approach to regional diplomacy and economic collaboration.
ASEAN remains a cornerstone of India's foreign policy and strategic calculations in the Indo-Pacific region. The summit provided an important platform for addressing shared challenges and opportunities in the post-pandemic era.
Bilateral Talks with Malaysia
During their phone conversation, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Ibrahim reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and discussed ways to further strengthen the partnership across various sectors. The leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, highlighting the convergence of perspectives on several global matters.
The dialogue between the two leaders is expected to give fresh impetus to the multifaceted relationship between India and Malaysia, which encompasses trade, defense, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people contacts.
This diplomatic engagement comes at a time when both nations are seeking to enhance economic cooperation and explore new areas of partnership in emerging sectors.
