Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced that 2026 will be celebrated as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation,” underlining the growing collaboration between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in maritime security, humanitarian relief, and the blue economy.

Delivering his opening remarks at the ASEAN-India Summit held virtually, PM Modi said, “India has stood firmly with its ASEAN friends in every crisis. Our cooperation in HADR, maritime security, and the blue economy is growing rapidly. In light of this, we are declaring 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that ASEAN remains the main pillar of India’s Act East Policy, noting that the partnership between India and ASEAN is “emerging as a powerful foundation for global stability and growth.”

Highlighting shared geography, history, and cultural values, Modi said, “India and ASEAN together represent nearly a quarter of the world’s population. We are fellow travellers of the Global South. Our partnership is not just commercial but also cultural.”

He praised the summit’s theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” aligning it with India’s vision for digital inclusion, food security, and resilient supply chains. Modi also reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN centrality and the Indo-Pacific outlook, underscoring their shared role in ensuring regional peace and prosperity.

PM Modi congratulated Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for successfully hosting the summit, appreciated Philippines President Bongbong Marcos for coordinating India-ASEAN relations, and congratulated Timor-Leste on joining ASEAN. He also offered condolences to Thailand’s royal family on the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit.