The Mint, The Hindu, October 26 reported that Indian Prime Minister Modi delivered an opening address via video conference at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, stating that the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and ASEAN continues to deepen, becoming a "solid foundation for global stability and development." It is known that the key topics of this summit include advancing the signing of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), implementing the ASEAN-India Plan of Action 2026-2030, to deepen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, education, food security, and technological development. In terms of bilateral relations, Modi welcomed East Timor's accession as a new member of ASEAN, and pointed out that India and ASEAN are partners of the "Global South," with ASEAN being the cornerstone of India's "Look East Policy." India has always fully supported ASEAN's central role and its vision in the "Indo-Pacific region." At the same time, Modi also announced 2026 as the "ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation Year" to deepen collaboration between both sides in areas such as maritime security, humanitarian relief, and blue economy. Additionally, on the issue of counter-terrorism, Modi emphasized the need for unity in fighting terrorism. It is known that India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has led a delegation to Malaysia to attend the 20th East Asia Summit. Analysts said that the reason Modi did not attend the ASEAN Summit is partly because he needs to deal with the election in Bihar, and partly to avoid meeting with Trump during this sensitive period.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1847223936958492/
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