Celebrating the 10th chapter of Delhi Dialogue X, EAM Sushma Swaraj asserts ASEAN to be significant in India’s foreign policy
New Delhi, July 20: Reclining the ever-lasting strong relation that India and ASEAN shares, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said that India has been working with ASEAN towards evolving a regional security architecture which is focused on ASEAN’s supremacy.
The Delhi Dialogue X for this year, it ought to be a special one because it celebrates its 10th chapter and helping evolve the relationship to the next level. Delivering the keynote address, EAM Sushma Swaraj emphasized the Dialogue to follow the Commemorative Summit of 25th January 2018 in New Delhi, which marked the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-India Partnership.
The Minister further said that the Summit recognized India and ASEAN, as maritime partners and neighbors and they must work together to ensure security and sustainability of oceans, seas, and waterways.
The theme of this year's Delhi Dialogue is 'Strengthening India-ASEAN Maritime Co-operation'.
Giving the welcome remarks, Secretary (East), Preeti Saran said the Delhi Dialogue has evolved into a useful forum to brainstorm all aspects of ASEAN - India relations. She said it has contributed significantly towards strengthening strategic partnership. Saying that ASEAN lies in the heart of Indo-Pacific policy, she expressed confidence that today’s interactions will help give a boost to India’s relationship with ASEAN countries.
Addressing the special plenary session, Minister of State for External Affairs, Gen V K Singh said the theme has been chosen aptly this time in view of focus that government wants to put on ASEAN India maritime cooperation.
He stressed that it is the idea of this cooperation that will set the tone for the Indo-Pacific region. The Minister highlighted that the fact that Delhi Dialogue is being opened with a roundtable with Chief Ministers of North Eastern states shows the focus that government places on the North East.
He said that Act East policy is not just a progression but a leap forward from the Look East policy. General Singh further said that Act East policy is wider in scope geographically and is more action-driven and result oriented.
The Minister added that efforts are on to reinforce ancient links of culture and cooperation with the ASEAN region. He said government envisions North Eastern states to be active partners in developing linkages with the region.
General Singh further stated that as part of Act East policy, North East has an important bearing on how things will evolve. He asserted that inclusive development of northeast is a priority for the government.