India’s Commitment to ASEAN: A $5 Million Boost for Tourism
During a visit to Laos, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India’s plan to contribute $5 million to enhance tourism in ASEAN countries. This initiative is part of a 10-point plan to strengthen ties between India and ASEAN, marking a decade of India’s Act East Policy.
ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025
Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary East in the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted that 2025 will be celebrated as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism. This initiative aims to boost connectivity and resilience among ASEAN nations and India.
Significance of PM Modi’s Visit
PM Modi’s participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit underscores India’s commitment to the region. The visit included bilateral meetings with leaders from Laos, Thailand, and New Zealand, as well as discussions with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Challenges at the East Asia Summit
While the East Asia Summit resulted in a Chair statement, no Leaders’ statement was issued due to differences in formulation. Despite this, the visit highlighted India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure and its positive impact on ASEAN countries.
Doubts Revealed
ASEAN -: ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It is a group of 10 countries in Southeast Asia that work together to promote economic growth and peace in the region.
$5 Million -: Five million dollars is a large amount of money. In Indian currency, it is approximately 37 crore rupees. This money is being given by India to help improve tourism in ASEAN countries.
Act East Policy -: The Act East Policy is a strategy by India to improve its relationships with countries in Southeast Asia. It focuses on increasing trade, cultural exchange, and cooperation with these countries.
Laos -: Laos is a country in Southeast Asia. It is one of the members of ASEAN and is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
ASEAN-India Year of Tourism -: The ASEAN-India Year of Tourism in 2025 will be a special year to celebrate and promote travel and tourism between India and ASEAN countries. It aims to encourage more people to visit each other’s countries.
East Asia Summit -: The East Asia Summit is a meeting of leaders from countries in East Asia and nearby regions. They discuss important issues like trade, security, and cooperation to improve the region.