PM Modi Declares 2026 as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the ASEAN-India Summit virtually on Sunday, announced 2026 as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.” The declaration underscores India’s growing engagement with ASEAN nations in maritime security, the blue economy, and regional stability under its Act East Policy.

Strengthening Maritime and Strategic Collaboration

During his address, PM Modi highlighted India’s commitment to expanding cooperation in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime security, and sustainable ocean development. He emphasised that maritime collaboration between India and ASEAN is essential for ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The declaration aims to strengthen the shared vision of a free, open, and inclusive maritime domain.

ASEAN as Pillar of India’s Act East Policy

Reiterating ASEAN’s importance, Modi described the bloc as the “main pillar” of India’s Act East Policy. He reaffirmed New Delhi’s steadfast support for ASEAN centrality and its Indo-Pacific outlook. The Prime Minister stated that the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is evolving into a powerful framework for regional and global growth.

Shared Values and Common Goals

PM Modi underlined that India and ASEAN together represent nearly a quarter of the world’s population and share historical, cultural, and civilisational bonds. He referred to both regions as “fellow travellers of the Global South,” noting that the partnership transcends commercial interests to embrace cultural and developmental cooperation. Modi also called for intensified efforts in education, tourism, health, science, technology, green energy, and cybersecurity.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India and ASEAN together account for nearly 25% of the global population.
• 2026 has been declared the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.
• ASEAN is central to India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.
• ASEAN’s 2025 theme is “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

Regional Cooperation and Diplomatic Engagements

PM Modi congratulated Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for successfully hosting the ASEAN Summit and extended appreciation to Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos for coordinating India’s ASEAN engagement. He also congratulated Timor-Leste on joining ASEAN and conveyed condolences to Thailand on the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit. The Prime Minister’s address reaffirmed India’s long-term commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable, and secure Indo-Pacific cooperation with ASEAN.