Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to Laos: Emphasizing Myanmar’s Inclusion and Strengthening ASEAN Ties
During the East Asia Summit in Laos, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of including Myanmar and restoring democracy in the nation. He urged global cooperation to achieve this goal. The summit also saw discussions on the ASEAN five-point consensus, with many leaders supporting Myanmar’s engagement.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Laos, from October 10-11, included participation in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. He met with leaders from Laos, Thailand, and New Zealand, discussing bilateral ties and cooperation in various sectors.
Key Initiatives and Agreements
India announced plans to double scholarships for ASEAN students at Nalanda University and institutionalize the ASEAN-India Women’s Scientist Conclave. Six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, covering defense cooperation, customs facilitation, and cultural projects.
Prime Minister Modi also introduced a 10-point plan to enhance connectivity and resilience between ASEAN nations and India, contributing USD 5 million towards tourism development. The summit adopted two declarations focusing on the Act East policy and digital transformation.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
Prime Minister Modi emphasized India’s support for ASEAN unity and its role in the Indo-Pacific vision. He invited ASEAN leaders to join a tree plantation campaign and discussed strengthening regional cooperation through BIMSTEC with Thailand’s Prime Minister.
Doubts Revealed
Laos -: Laos is a country in Southeast Asia. It is known for its mountainous terrain and beautiful landscapes. The capital city of Laos is Vientiane.
Myanmar -: Myanmar is a country in Southeast Asia, also known as Burma. It has been facing political challenges and issues related to democracy.
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 of leaders from countries in East Asia and nearby regions. They discuss important issues like trade, security, and cooperation.
Nalanda University -: Nalanda University is a famous university in India, known for its historical significance and focus on higher education and research.
MoUs -: MoUs stand for Memorandums of Understanding. They are agreements between two or more parties to work together on specific projects or initiatives.
10-point plan -: A 10-point plan is a list of ten specific actions or ideas that are proposed to achieve a certain goal. In this context, it is about improving connections between ASEAN and India.