Fayez Hoda, Pune
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted how India’s Act East Policy has enhanced and revitalized the nation’s connections with ASEAN countries, giving them a fresh focus, vitality, and direction.
Speaking at the India-ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR, he emphasized that India and ASEAN, with their respective peace-loving societies that mutually respect each other’s national integrity and sovereignty, deserve the credit for claiming the 21st century. The Prime Minister emphasized the value of friendship, cooperation, communication, and partnership between India and ASEAN in promoting stability and development, given the disputes and tensions that are affecting many regions worldwide.
Prime Minister Modi reflected on the expanding economic links, pointing out that trade with ASEAN has surpassed 130 billion dollars and has nearly doubled over the past ten years. He said that direct flights between India and Brunei would soon begin, and he highlighted India’s direct aviation connections with seven ASEAN nations. He also highlighted that India had just opened new consulates in Timor-Leste and that Singapore was the first country in ASEAN to cooperate with India on fintech connectivity.
The Lao PDR Minister of Home Affairs, Vilayvong Bouddakham, gave the Prime Minister a hearty greeting upon his arrival in Vientiane. Indian diaspora folk gathered at his hotel to greet him, and then he went to see the Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang perform the Lao version of the Ramayana is known locally as Phalak Phalam or Phra Lak Phra Ram.
In addition to attending the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Mr. Modi is planning to hold bilateral talks with a number of participating and member nations during his visit. In a statement prior to his departure, he emphasized India’s strong civilizational and cultural links with the ASEAN region, which includes Lao PDR. These ties are further enhanced by a shared heritage, particularly the Buddhist tradition and the Ramayana.
The Prime Minister also went to an exhibition showcasing the Archaeological Survey of India’s conservation and restoration work in Laos. He also appreciated the Phalak Phalam, also known as Phra Lak Phra Ram, Lao Ramayana performance by the esteemed Royal Theatre of Luang Prabang.