On 11 October 2024, the Prime Minister of India participated in the 19th East Asia Summit (EAS), held in Vientiane, Lao PDR. His involvement underscored India’s commitment to enhancing partnerships with nations across the Indo-Pacific region, which encompasses both the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
India’s Role in the Indo-Pacific
The Prime Minister highlighted the crucial role of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) in shaping the Indo-Pacific’s future. He introduced India’s Pacific Vision, emphasizing collaboration with countries such as the Quad nations—India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—to foster peace and cooperation in the region.
Act East Policy
The Prime Minister’s participation in the summit reflects India’s Act East Policy, which aims to deepen ties with Southeast Asian countries. He stressed that a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific is essential for shared prosperity and peace.
Additionally, the Prime Minister pointed out the alignment between India’s Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative and ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, both of which prioritize development and cooperation over domination. This shared vision promotes regional collaboration to address common challenges.
Support for the East Asia Summit
The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s support for the East Asia Summit (EAS) and thanked member countries for their backing of Nalanda University, which India is reviving as a global center of learning. He also invited leaders to an upcoming Heads of Higher Education Conclave, aimed at boosting educational cooperation.
Promoting Dialogue and Diplomacy
The Prime Minister stressed that resolving global conflicts, particularly those affecting the Global South, requires dialogue and humanitarian solutions rather than military intervention. He emphasized the importance of peaceful conflict resolution and the need for global cooperation in tackling serious threats like terrorism and cybersecurity issues.
Expressions of Gratitude
The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister of Laos for hosting the summit and extended support to Malaysia, the incoming ASEAN Chair. He reiterated India’s commitment to fostering mutual growth and collaboration with ASEAN and other regional partners.
About the East Asia Summit
The East Asia Summit (EAS), established in 2005, aims to enhance cooperation among its 18 member countries, including the 10 ASEAN nations, India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. The summit focuses on issues such as security, economic growth, and sustainable development, promoting dialogue and cooperation over military conflict.
