India-ASEAN friendship important, says PM Modi

Modi also cited India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, launched in 2019, which aligns with ASEAN's Indo-Pacific Outlook. This initiative aims to enhance regional security and cooperation. "Last year, we initiated maritime exercises to strengthen security and stability in the region," he said, emphasising India's commitment to peace and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Over the past decade, India's trade with ASEAN has nearly doubled to more than $130 billion, a fact Modi proudly highlighted. "India-ASEAN trade has become a key driver of growth for both regions, and we have tremendous potential to achieve even more," he said. To realise this potential, Modi announced a comprehensive review of the existing trade agreements to further optimise economic cooperation.

He also announced direct flight connectivity between India and seven ASEAN countries, with new routes, including direct flights to Brunei, set to launch soon. In addition, Modi spoke of the success of India's Fintech connectivity with Singapore, noting that it was being replicated in other ASEAN nations, fostering greater financial integration in the region.

In a significant move to further strengthen ties, Modi announced a 10-point plan aimed at deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and ASEAN. The plan includes celebrating the year 2025 as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, with efforts to boost cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Modi also proposed doubling the number of scholarships at Nalanda University for ASEAN students and extending grants for ASEAN students attending agricultural universities in India.