What was Decided at the ASEAN-India 2026-2030 Plan of Action Meeting?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur led to the adoption of the 2026-2030 Plan of Action, aimed at enhancing cooperation and strategic partnerships. This pivotal moment signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening ties in various sectors, including tourism, economy, and defense.
Key Takeaways
- Adoption of the 2026-2030 ASEAN-India Plan of Action.
- Focus on expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
- Strengthening people-to-people relations as part of the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism.
- Commitment to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
- Engagement in bilateral discussions during the ASEAN meetings.
Kuala Lumpur, July 10 (NationPress) The Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, presided over the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers' Meeting (FMM) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Thursday, where the new 2026-2030 ASEAN-India Plan of Action (POA) was officially adopted.
In his capacity as India's country coordinator, MoS Margherita co-chaired the meeting alongside Theresa P. Lazaro, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs from the Philippines.
“We have adopted a new ASEAN-India Plan of Action for 2026-2030, aimed at broadening our collaboration and enhancing our comprehensive strategic partnership. During this ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, we explored avenues to further strengthen people-to-people ties,” Margherita shared in a post on X.
He noted that the discussions also covered proposals for collaboration in digital technology, disaster management, defense, economy, maritime security, and health.
“The Ministers reaffirmed their dedication to enriching the ASEAN-India Comprehensive-Strategic Partnership (CSP), deliberated on its future trajectory, and shared perspectives on regional and international issues that are of mutual interest. The meeting formally adopted the ASEAN-India Plan of Action (2026-2030),” reported the Indian Mission to ASEAN on X.
The MoS arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday evening to take part in the ASEAN-India FMM at the invitation of the current ASEAN Chair, Malaysia.
He is also scheduled to attend the 15th East Asia Summit FMM and the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum from July 10-11, which is part of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related activities.
This visit aims to foster meaningful engagements and further enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN.
India and ASEAN share rich cultural and civilizational ties, with ASEAN serving as a cornerstone of India's Act East Policy and the broader Indo-Pacific vision.
“This visit will renew India’s strong engagement with the ASEAN-centered regional framework, emphasize our commitment to ASEAN unity, and strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated prior to Margherita's visit to Malaysia.
The MoS is also anticipated to engage in bilateral discussions with counterparts from other nations in Kuala Lumpur during the ASEAN-related meetings.
Point of View
It is evident that the adoption of the 2026-2030 Plan of Action demonstrates a robust commitment to enhancing regional cooperation. This strategic partnership is pivotal, especially for India, as it solidifies its role in the Indo-Pacific landscape while fostering cultural and economic ties with ASEAN nations.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main outcome of the ASEAN-India FMM?
The primary outcome was the adoption of the 2026-2030 ASEAN-India Plan of Action, aimed at enhancing cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Who chaired the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers' Meeting?
The meeting was chaired by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita.
What topics were discussed during the meeting?
The ministers discussed proposals for cooperation in digital technology, disaster management, defense, economy, maritime security, and health.
When and where did the meeting take place?
The meeting took place on July 10 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
What does the ASEAN-India Plan of Action signify for future relations?
It signifies a renewed commitment to deepening ties and cooperation across various sectors between ASEAN and India.
