India's Act East Policy: Strengthening Ties Across ASEAN and Indo-Pacific

India's Act East policy, led by PM Modi, has significantly enhanced relations with ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. Indian Ambassador to Lao PDR, Prashant Agrawal, highlights cultural connections and developmental partnerships. Modi will attend ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits in Lao PDR to commemorate policy achievements.

Indian Ambassador to Lao PDR, Prashant Agrawal, announced a profound shift in India's diplomatic strategy in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions, credited to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East policy. Speaking on Thursday, Agrawal emphasized the deepening ties prompted by this policy, promising transformative collaborations.

PM Modi is set to attend the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit in Lao PDR later this year. Highlighting ten years of the policy, Agrawal noted, "This policy has not only reshaped our relations with ASEAN but has also invigorated our engagement with the Indo-Pacific, enhancing trade and fostering people-to-people connections."

The Indian envoy celebrated India-Lao PDR's shared cultural heritage, especially through Ramayana traditions, reiterating the civilizational ties. He also stressed on developmental partnerships, with Vat Phou as a symbol, and future collaborations in digital infrastructure and trade. PM Modi's visit underscores India's commitment to ASEAN relations, marking his 10th ASEAN-India Summit attendance this October.

(With inputs from agencies.)