PM Narendra Modi Visits Laos for ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day visit to Laos to participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. This visit is at the invitation of Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. The Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East), Jaideep Mazumdar, highlighted the importance of ASEAN-related mechanisms and the future of India-ASEAN relations.
Significance of the Visit
This summit marks the tenth anniversary of PM Modi’s Act East policy. Leaders will review the progress of India-ASEAN relations and plan future cooperation. The theme of ‘connectivity and resilience’ is a key focus, with India emphasizing its engagement with ASEAN, which includes direct flights and significant trade partnerships.
East Asia Summit
The East Asia Summit includes 10 ASEAN countries and partners like Australia, China, and the US. It aims to promote peace and prosperity in the region. PM Modi will discuss the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative and the revival of Nalanda University, an East Asia Summit initiative.
Bilateral Meetings
PM Modi will also hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister of Laos, strengthening the historical and friendly relations between the two nations.
Doubts Revealed
Laos -: Laos is a small country in Southeast Asia, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture. It shares borders with countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and China.
ASEAN -: ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It is a group of countries in Southeast Asia that work together to promote economic growth and peace in the region.
East Asia Summit -: The East Asia Summit is a meeting where leaders from countries in East Asia and nearby regions, like the US and China, discuss important issues to improve peace and prosperity.
Act East policy -: The Act East policy is an initiative by India to improve its relationships with countries in Southeast Asia and East Asia. It focuses on increasing trade, cultural exchange, and connectivity.
Connectivity and resilience -: Connectivity refers to how well countries are linked through transportation and communication. Resilience means being strong and able to recover quickly from difficulties, like natural disasters or economic problems.
Bilateral talks -: Bilateral talks are discussions between two countries to strengthen their relationship and address mutual concerns. In this case, it refers to talks between India and Laos.
