The two leaders reaffirmed the importance of the deepening partnership between the U.S. and India and the value of their shared engagement in the region, including through the East Asia Summit, the official said. The China-ASEAN relationship transcends bilateral dimension and is becoming an important cornerstone of peace, stability and development of East Asia, he said.
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“We need to target not only the terrorists, but also their entire supporting ecosystem”, Modi said while addressing the 11th East Asia Summit here, the premier forum of the Asia-Pacific region.
Mr. Modi said India’s ties with the countries of South East Asia were truly historic.
“We wish to enhance our physical and digital connectivity; to see greater people to people links; to strengthen our institutional linkages; and, to leverage the modern interconnected world for the mutual benefit of all our people”, Modi said.
The 28th ASEAN Summit will discuss ASEAN Community building efforts, especially the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, while the 29th ASEAN Summit will focus on ASEAN’s external relations and future direction as well as exchange of views on regional and global issues of common concern.
He thanked the member countries for sharing their views on “nature, direction and priorities of our engagement”.
As for the hot regional issues that captured media attention in previous months, Soukthavy said a consensus had been reached during ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings and such topics were expected to be downplayed during the upcoming summits. Two leaders discussed further cooperation in areas like counter terrorism and maritime security. Conclusion of a balanced Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement will futher boost our trade and investment ties with the region, the release said.
EAS is held after annual ASEAN leaders’ meetings.
The US has been playing a lead role in supporting India’s bid in the 48-member elite group.
The ASEAN leaders are scheduled to meet the heads of state, government of ASEAN dialogue partners which include China, India, Japan, Korea, Australia and the United States.
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He added the EAS is adopting statement on non proliferation and that India remains committed to strengthening its objectives.
