Policy Milestones:
30 years of ‘Look East’ and 10 years of ‘Act East’ policy. India’s engagement with ASEAN has strengthened over the decades.
Economic Relations:
– Trade has doubled to $130 billion, but the $44 billion trade deficit.remains a challenge. – ASEAN sees India’s policies as protectionist, while India blames China’s exports via ASEAN. – Need to expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement for better economic cooperation.
Security & Strategic Engagement:
- India emphasizes ASEAN’s centrality in regional security.
- Active participation in Quad, ASEAN Regional Forum, and East Asia Summit.
- Strengthened bilateral military cooperation, especially with the Philippines.
Geopolitical Challenges:
- US-China rivalry, South China Sea tensions, and global conflicts (Ukraine, Israel-Iran) impact ASEAN.
- China’s growing assertiveness vs. US efforts to reclaim military influence in the region.
- Need to insulate India-ASEAN relations from global turbulence.
Future Prospects:
- Enhance trade & investment ties.
- Focus on maritime security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, defense industry collaboration.
- Strengthen regional connectivity via projects like India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.
