Overview of ASEAN

• Establishment: Formed on August 8, 1967, by Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
• Objective: Promoting regional cooperation in various fields (economic, social, cultural, etc.) and ensuring peace and stability.
• Expansion: Later joined by Brunei, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam, creating a 10-nation bloc.
• Key Pillars: ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC).
• Motto: “One Vision, One Identity, One Community” reflecting unity in diversity.

India and ASEAN: Act East Policy

• Act East Policy: An evolution of India’s ‘Look East’ Policy (1990s), emphasizing deeper engagement with ASEAN and broader Asia-Pacific.
• Geopolitical Importance: India considers ASEAN central to its strategic and economic outreach, especially after the dissolution of the USSR.
• Northeast Connectivity: Proximity of Northeast India to Southeast Asia positions it as a key gateway for economic ties.
• Economic Relations: The India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (2010) boosted trade. India opted out of the RCEP in 2020 but remains a strong partner.

East Asia Summit (EAS)

• Initiation: First held in 2005, involving ASEAN member states and countries like Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand.
• Objective: Forum for discussing political and economic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Participation: Includes key global players like the U.S. and Russia, making it a major platform for multilateral dialogue.

ASEAN’s Role Amid China’s Rise

• Geopolitical Dynamics: China’s rise under Xi Jinping has increased tensions, particularly in the South China Sea, where ASEAN nations like the Philippines and Brunei have competing claims.
• Debt Trap Concerns: China’s infrastructure loans in the region are seen as a potential source of influence over countries unable to repay.
• India’s Position: PM Modi emphasizes ASEAN’s centrality in maintaining peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, supporting a balanced approach to regional security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi 10-Point Plan aimed at strengthening India-ASEAN relations

1. Celebrating ASEAN-India Year of Tourism in 2025: Aims to enhance tourism cooperation between India and ASEAN nations.
2. Doubling Scholarships at Nalanda University: To boost educational exchange and people-to-people connections.
3. Grants for ASEAN Students at Indian Agricultural Universities: New grants to promote agricultural collaboration and capacity-building.
4. Strengthening Trade Ties: Emphasis on reviewing trade agreements to unlock further economic potential.
5. Cultural Linkages: Commitment to deepen cultural exchanges, including celebrations of the Act East Policy.
6. Technology Cooperation: Focus on advancing technological collaboration between India and ASEAN countries.
7. Connectivity Initiatives: Projects aimed at improving physical and digital connectivity.
8. People-Centric Activities: Engaging citizens through initiatives that foster stronger interpersonal ties.
9. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: Strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through sectoral collaborations.
10. Celebrating the Decade of Act East Policy: A series of activities to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the policy, enhancing mutual cooperation.

Conclusion

• Significance for India: ASEAN and EAS serve as crucial platforms for India to assert its presence in the Indo-Pacific, counterbalance China, and strengthen regional partnerships through diplomacy and economic collaboration.