Modi to attend ASEAN-India Summit virtually on Oct 28

INTERNATIONAL DESK: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 18th ASEAN-India Summit, to be held virtually on October 28, at the invitation of the Sultan of Brunei.

He will also attend the 16th East Asia Summit to be held on October 27 virtually.

The ASEAN-India Summit will be attended by Heads of State or Government of the ASEAN countries.

The summit will review the status of ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership and take stock of progress made in key areas including Covid-19 & Health, Trade & Commerce, Connectivity, and Education & Culture, MEA said.

“Important regional and international developments including post-pandemic economic recovery will also be discussed. ASEAN-India Summits are held annually and provide opportunities for India and ASEAN to engage at the highest level,” the MEA statement said.

“Prime Minister attended the 17th ASEAN-India Summit held virtually in November last year. 18th ASEAN-India Summit will be the ninth ASEAN-India Summit to be attended by him,” the statement said.

The Prime Minister will also attend the 16th East Asia Summit. This summit is the premier Leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific. Since its inception in 2005, it has played a significant role in the strategic and geopolitical evolution of East Asia.

Apart from the 10 ASEAN Member states, the East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, United States and Russia.

At the 16th East Asia Summit, Leaders will discuss matters of regional and international interest and concern including maritime security, terrorism, Covid-19 cooperation. Leaders are also expected to accept declarations on Mental Health, Economic recovery through Tourism and Green Recovery, which are being co-sponsored by India, the MEA said. (The Indian Express)