India-ASEAN ties making steady progress; PM announces maritime security cooperation for 2026

At the 22nd ASEAN-India summit in Kuala Lumpur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as a cornerstone for global stability. He announced that 2026 would be observed as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation' to deepen naval ties. Discussions focused on finalizing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) and implementing the 2026-2030 Plan of Action. India emphasized collaboration in digital inclusion, food security, and resilient supply chains. Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim noted that the relationship is rooted in shared values of friendship and trust, representing nearly one-fourth of the global population.

Key Points

  • The year 2026 has been declared as the 'ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation' to strengthen security ties.
  • Negotiations are underway to finalize the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to unlock economic potential.
  • India views ASEAN as a vital cultural partner and a key companion in the Global South framework.
  • Cooperation is expanding into new domains including green energy, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion.

Exam Facts

  • 22nd ASEAN-India summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • ASEAN-India Plan of Action covers the period 2026-2030.
  • AITIGA stands for ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement.

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All current affairs of 27 October 2025