External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the potential of strengthened collaboration between India and ASEAN countries to play a significant role in shaping the Indo-Pacific region.
Speaking at the first ASEAN Future Forum, Jaishankar reiterated India's support for ASEAN unity, centrality, and the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
Highlighting the synergy between India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), Jaishankar underscored the importance of cooperation in addressing comprehensive security challenges.
He emphasised the need for greater cooperation and coordination between India and ASEAN in the context of a multipolar Asia and world. Jaishankar stressed the importance of upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and ensuring freedom of navigation, overflight, and unimpeded commerce in the Indo-Pacific region.
He discussed India's initiative of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) aimed at promoting peace and stability. The External Affairs Minister also highlighted the collective efforts required to tackle security challenges, climate change, disasters, and transnational crimes.
He emphasised the importance of trust and transparency in the digital era, particularly in addressing emerging security concerns related to artificial intelligence.
The ASEAN Future Forum, held under the presidency of Vietnam, aims to foster a cohesive and dynamic ASEAN business community in the digital era. The theme of this year's forum is 'Towards Fast and Sustainable Growth of a People-Centred ASEAN Community', reflecting the focus on inclusive development and innovation.
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