EAM’s remarks during ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (22 July 2026)

Secretary Theresa Lazaro,

Your Royal Highness

Distinguished Ministers,

Secretary General of ASEAN

Colleagues,

It is a real pleasure to join you all this morning at Manila. Let me convey our deep appreciation to the Philippines for its warm welcome and hospitality, and more important, for its key role as the country coordinator for building and strengthening the India - ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Chairship theme “Navigating Our Future, Together”, captures the sentiment that many of us feel today. The world is increasingly turbulent and it is increasingly evident that no single nation or even grouping can deal with it on its own. Let us contemplate the near future and consider how best our cooperation can serve our respective interests.

In this era of volatility and disruption, most visible stress in on supply chains, energy, food, and health security can no longer be taken for granted. Because we are also dependent on maritime trade, that too could become a source of anxiety. Observing international law in that regard is therefore vital. Coincidentally, the year 2026 is the ‘ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation’. It is a timely reminder of what we can do for a more stable and secure future.

Colleagues, at the same time, both India and ASEAN are optimistic about their prospects. Our eyes must therefore be firmly fixed on opportunities, even while addressing challenges, and there are many of them amongst us and between us. The India - ASEAN agenda today covers trade and investment, mobility and talent, tech, digital and AI, green and sustainability, as well as connectivity. It is through deeper cooperation that we can de-risk and diversify. India and ASEAN have traditionally worked for the welfare of the larger region. For India, ASEAN centrality is a key principle. One example of the manner of that working, is the way in which the ASEAN outlook on the Indo - Pacific measures with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. There are many other domains and examples reflected in activities, numbers and policies. This is a world in transition, and India and ASEAN, who account for two billion, must navigate it together, if it is to remain safe and steady. Thank you.

Manila
July 22, 2026