New Delhi/Kuala Lumpur, Oct 23 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar will stand in for Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 20th East Asia Summit set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on October 27, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday.

Prime Minister Modi is anticipated to attend the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit virtually on October 26 at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

According to a statement from the MEA, Prime Minister Modi and the ASEAN leaders will conduct a joint review of the progress in ASEAN-India relations and deliberate on methods to fortify the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Enhancing the connection with ASEAN is a crucial aspect of our Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

The East Asia Summit will serve as a platform to discuss challenges to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as to share perspectives on regional and international dynamics.

Earlier today, PM Modi expressed his eagerness to join the 47th ASEAN-India Summit virtually from Kuala Lumpur, while also congratulating Malaysia for taking on the chairmanship of the group.

PM Modi spoke with Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday to confirm his virtual attendance at the summit, which coincides with the Diwali celebrations in India.

The 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits are scheduled from October 26 to 28 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In a post on X, PM Modi stated, "Had a warm conversation with my dear friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia. Congratulated him on Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship and conveyed best wishes for the success of the upcoming Summits."

He further added, "I look forward to participating in the ASEAN-India Summit virtually, and to further the deepening of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."

During their dialogue, both leaders explored ways to deepen bilateral relations and enhance collaboration across multiple sectors.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim shared on social media, "Last night, I spoke with my friend, former Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, to discuss efforts to elevate the Malaysia-India relationship to a more strategic and comprehensive level."

He highlighted the significance of the India-Malaysia partnership, stating, "India remains a vital partner for Malaysia in trade, investment, technology, education, and security sectors."

Due to the Diwali celebrations in India, PM Modi will participate virtually in the ASEAN Summit. "I respect that decision and extend my Deepavali greetings to him and all the people of India," Anwar remarked.

He reiterated Malaysia's commitment to fortifying ties with India and enhancing ASEAN–India cooperation for a more peaceful and prosperous region.

As Malaysia gears up to host the significant 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, it will become the diplomatic epicenter of Southeast Asia during this event.

Over 30 heads of state and government, including leaders from ASEAN nations and key dialogue partners such as the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, are expected to convene at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Deliberations will center on regional peace, economic resilience, and inclusive growth under Malaysia's 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship theme of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability'.

The three-day summit will culminate on October 28 with a closing ceremony and the formal transfer of the ASEAN Chairmanship to the Philippines, signifying the end of a pivotal year for Malaysia in promoting regional cooperation and collective prosperity.