New Delhi, September 3, 2023 – In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a pivotal two-day visit to Indonesia, where he will partake in the 20th ASEAN-India Summit and the 18th East Asia Summit (EAS) from September 6th to 7th. This mission is of paramount importance, as it follows the elevation of India’s relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022. Here are the key points surrounding this momentous event:
1. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Unveiled:
- The upcoming ASEAN-India Summit is the first of its kind since the elevation of the India-ASEAN relationship to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership status last year.
2. Prime Minister’s Diplomatic Visit:
- Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Indonesia comes at the invitation of Indonesian President Joko Widodo and is officially confirmed by the External Affairs Ministry.
3. Strategic Timing:
- This visit holds strategic significance as it precedes India’s hosting of the G20 Summit on September 9-10, making it a crucial prelude to the G20 event.
4. ASEAN-India Summit Agenda:
- The primary agenda of the ASEAN-India Summit is to assess the progress in India-ASEAN relations and chart a course for future cooperation.
5. East Asia Summit’s Role:
- The East Asia Summit will serve as a platform for leaders from ASEAN nations and their eight dialogue partners, including India, to engage in discussions on regional and global matters, fostering dialogue and cooperation on significant international issues.
6. Economic Collaboration:
- In August, ASEAN-India Economic Ministers met in Indonesia to review the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), aiming to complete the review of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by 2025.
7. Historic Collaboration with Indonesia:
- Reflecting on Prime Minister Modi’s 2018 visit to Jakarta, an agreement was struck with President Widodo, leading to the establishment of a New Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This marked a new era of collaboration and mutual growth between Indonesia and India.
In the backdrop of these developments, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Indonesia signifies a commitment to strengthening India’s engagement with ASEAN nations and deepening regional ties, setting the stage for an era of enhanced cooperation and shared prosperity.