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PM Modi Declares 21st Century as the Century of India and ASEAN
Oct 26, 2025Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN, highlighting the growing importance of cooperation between the two regions in shaping global progress and stability.
Addressing the ASEAN-India Summit virtually, which was held in Malaysia, Mr. Modi underscored that India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) together represent nearly a quarter of the world’s population. He emphasized that the two regions are not only connected geographically but also share deep-rooted historical ties, cultural linkages, and common values.
“India and ASEAN do not just share geography; we are connected by the thread of history, civilization, and shared aspirations,” the Prime Minister said.
Mr. Modi noted that even amid global uncertainties, the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has continued to register sustained progress, emerging as a strong pillar for regional and global stability and development.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to its Southeast Asian partners, he said that India has always stood firmly with ASEAN nations in times of crisis and disaster. Cooperation in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime security, and the blue economy is expanding rapidly, he added.
In a significant announcement, the Prime Minister declared 2026 as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation,” aimed at strengthening collaboration in maritime trade, security, and sustainable ocean development.
Mr. Modi’s remarks reaffirm India’s vision of a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, underscoring the centrality of ASEAN in India’s foreign policy under the Act East Policy.
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