Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 16th East Asia Summit today which will be held virtually. The East Asia 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.
At the 16th East Asia Summit, leaders will discuss matters of regional and international interest and concern including maritime security, terrorism and 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.
Apart from the 10 ASEAN Member states, East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, United States and Russia. India, being a founding member, is committed to strengthening the East Asia Summit and making it more effective for dealing with contemporary challenges. It is also an important platform for furthering practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific by building upon the convergence between ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific and Indo-Pacific Ocean's Initiative. ANUPAM MISHRA, AIR NEWS, DELHI.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend 18th ASEAN-India Summit virtually tomorrow at the invitation of Sultan of Brunei. The Summit will be attended by Heads of State and Heads of Government of the ASEAN Countries.
The 18th ASEAN-India Summit will review the status of ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership and take stock of progress made in key areas including COVID-19 and Health, Trade and Commerce, Connectivity and Education and Culture. Important regional and international developments including post-pandemic economic recovery will also be discussed.
ASEAN-India Summits are held annually and provide opportunity for India and ASEAN to engage at the highest level. 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.