PM Modi's ASEAN Mission: A Decade of Act East

Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to enhance India's partnership with ASEAN during his visit to Lao PDR for the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits. Celebrating a decade since the adoption of the Act East policy, the visit will focus on cultural ties and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed optimism about his visit to Lao PDR, where he will attend the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits. This engagement, he believes, will fortify India's ties with ASEAN nations.

In a departure statement, Modi highlighted the significance of 2023 as it marks ten years since the Act East policy's inception. He expressed eagerness to review progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN leaders and explore future collaborative avenues.

The summits will serve as a platform to discuss peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Modi emphasized the deep cultural connections, including Buddhism and Ramayana, India shares with the region. He anticipates fruitful meetings with Lao PDR leaders to bolster bilateral relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)