Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday declared that India is progressing steadily under the guiding principle of 'reform, perform, and transform', emphasizing that the nation's growing self-reliance serves as a multiplying force for Indonesia and the broader ASEAN region.
India's self-reliance as a regional catalyst
Speaking at a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, PM Modi highlighted how India's economic reforms and performance-driven governance have created new opportunities for partnership. He noted that India's transformation into a more self-reliant economy directly benefits neighboring countries by enhancing trade, investment, and technology transfer.
"India's self-reliance is not a zero-sum game. It is a multiplying force that strengthens not only Indonesia but the entire ASEAN community," the Prime Minister stated. He added that New Delhi remains committed to deepening its engagement with Southeast Asia under its Act East Policy.
Key outcomes of the ASEAN-India engagement
The meeting also reviewed progress in defense cooperation, digital infrastructure, and sustainable development. Both sides agreed to expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement to boost bilateral commerce, which currently stands at over $110 billion. Indonesia, as ASEAN's largest economy, remains a pivotal partner in India's Indo-Pacific vision.
Modi also underscored India's role in ensuring regional stability, citing joint naval exercises and capacity-building initiatives. "Our partnership is built on trust and shared aspirations for a peaceful, prosperous Indo-Pacific," he said.
Reform, perform, transform in action
The 'reform, perform, transform' mantra has been a hallmark of Modi's governance, focusing on structural reforms, efficient delivery, and inclusive growth. India has implemented landmark policies such as the Goods and Services Tax, corporate tax cuts, and production-linked incentives, which have attracted foreign investment and boosted manufacturing. The Prime Minister reiterated that these measures are designed to make India a global manufacturing hub while ensuring that growth is sustainable and equitable.
"Our reforms are aimed at unleashing the potential of 1.4 billion Indians. When India performs, the world benefits," Modi said, adding that the country's digital public infrastructure—such as UPI and Aadhaar—offers scalable solutions for ASEAN nations.
Strengthening ties with Indonesia
Bilateral relations between India and Indonesia have deepened in recent years, with both countries sharing a common vision for maritime security and economic integration. During the meeting, Modi and Indonesian President Joko Widodo discussed enhancing cooperation in renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and startups. They also agreed to expedite the implementation of the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.
President Widodo welcomed India's increased engagement, stating that "India's rise is an opportunity for ASEAN to accelerate its own development." The two leaders also exchanged views on regional issues, including the situation in Myanmar and the South China Sea.
Impact on the broader region
Analysts see Modi's statement as a reaffirmation of India's commitment to ASEAN centrality. With global supply chains diversifying, India's self-reliance push could complement ASEAN's manufacturing base, creating a more resilient economic bloc. The Prime Minister's emphasis on 'reform, perform, transform' is expected to resonate with investors looking for stable, growth-oriented partners in the region.
The ASEAN-India Summit concluded with the adoption of a joint statement on strengthening the strategic partnership, with a focus on digital transformation, green energy, and people-to-people ties.
