Indian Ambassador Highlights Act East Policy and Cultural Ties with Lao PDR
Vientiane, Laos – Indian Ambassador to Lao PDR, Prashant Agrawal, emphasized the impact of India’s Act East policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. This policy has significantly enhanced India’s relations with ASEAN countries and the Indo-Pacific region. PM Modi is set to visit Lao PDR for the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit.
Celebrating Ten Years of Act East Policy
Ambassador Agrawal noted the ten-year milestone of the Act East Policy, highlighting its success in fostering multidimensional connectivity, trade partnerships, and cultural exchanges. He described the policy as robust and dynamic, marking a significant occasion for celebration.
Cultural Connections Through Ramayana
Agrawal spoke about the cultural ties between India and Lao PDR, particularly through the Ramayana, known locally as ‘Phalak Phalam’ or ‘Phra Lak Phra Ram’. These connections, along with shared Buddhist heritage, provide a strong foundation for future relations.
Strengthening Developmental Partnerships
The ambassador highlighted the developmental partnership between India and Lao PDR, rooted in shared heritage. He mentioned Vat Phou as a symbol of cultural ties and discussed advancements in digital infrastructure and trade connectivity.
Prime Minister Modi’s Upcoming Visit
Prime Minister Modi will attend the ASEAN-India Summit and East Asia Summit in Vientiane, invited by Lao PDR’s Prime Minister Siphandone. This visit underscores India’s commitment to ASEAN-related mechanisms, as noted by MEA Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Ambassador -: An Indian Ambassador is a person who represents India in another country. They work to maintain good relations between India and that country.
Prashant Agrawal -: Prashant Agrawal is the name of the Indian Ambassador to Lao PDR. He is responsible for representing India and its interests in Lao PDR.
Act East Policy -: The Act East Policy is a strategy by India to improve its relations with countries in Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. It focuses on trade, culture, and connectivity.
Lao PDR -: Lao PDR stands for Lao People’s Democratic Republic, which is a country in Southeast Asia. It is often simply called Laos.
ASEAN -: ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It is a group of countries in Southeast Asia that work together on economic and political issues.
Indo-Pacific -: The Indo-Pacific is a region that includes the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It is important for trade and international relations.
Ramayana -: The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic story about the prince Rama. It is an important cultural and religious text in India and other countries.
PM Modi -: PM Modi refers to Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. He is the leader of the Indian government.
Digital infrastructure -: Digital infrastructure refers to the technology and systems that support digital communication and services, like the internet and mobile networks.
East Asia Summits -: The East Asia Summits are meetings where leaders from East Asian countries discuss important regional issues. India participates in these summits to strengthen its ties with East Asia.
