The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 20th East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, scheduled for October 27.

While Jaishankar leads the delegation in person, Prime Minister Modi will virtually attend the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit on October 26 at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

According to the MEA statement, Modi and ASEAN leaders will “jointly review progress in ASEAN-India relations and discuss initiatives to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” The statement emphasized that ASEAN remains a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

The East Asia Summit will serve as a platform for dialogue on regional peace, economic growth, and Indo-Pacific stability, bringing together leaders from major powers including the U.S., China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Canada.

Earlier on Thursday, Modi spoke with his Malaysian counterpart and congratulated him on Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship. “Look forward to joining the ASEAN-India Summit virtually, and to further deepening of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Modi posted on X.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the call, saying, “India remains an important partner of Malaysia in trade, investment, and technology cooperation.” He also extended Deepavali greetings to Modi and the people of India, acknowledging the Prime Minister’s decision to attend virtually due to the festival.

The 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, running from October 26–28, are expected to host over 30 heads of state and government, focusing on regional inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity under Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship theme.