PM Modi told the 47th ASEAN Summit that the 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN, announced 2026 as the Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation and urged deeper ties on maritime security, disaster response and the blue economy.
PM Modi’s ASEAN Summit: ‘21st Century Belongs to India and ASEAN
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a forceful virtual address to the 47th ASEAN Summit, asserting that “the 21st century is our century” and urging closer India-ASEAN cooperation across strategic, economic and cultural fronts. Modi said India and ASEAN together can shape a shared, inclusive and sustainable future, tying the message to India’s Act East policy and regional priorities.
In a key announcement, the Prime Minister declared 2026 will be observed as the “Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation”, signalling a new push to strengthen ties across the Indian Ocean region. He framed maritime cooperation as central to disaster response, maritime security and the blue economy, and called for enhanced joint efforts by coastal nations.
Modi highlighted concrete areas for expanded partnership — from disaster management and maritime security to trade, investment and cultural exchange — and linked the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goals. His remarks underscored India’s intent to be a reliable partner for Southeast Asia on infrastructure, capacity building and regional connectivity.
