Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit to Laos
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Laos from October 10-11. This visit is significant as India celebrates a decade of the Act East Policy. The invitation comes from Sonexay Siphandone, the Prime Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Key Events During the Visit
During his stay, Prime Minister Modi will participate in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. Laos is currently the Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
ASEAN-India Summit
The ASEAN-India Summit will focus on reviewing the progress of India-ASEAN relations through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and planning future cooperation.
East Asia Summit
The East Asia Summit is a leaders-led forum aimed at building strategic trust in the region. It allows leaders, including those from India, to discuss regional issues.
Importance of the Visit
India’s relationship with Southeast Asian countries is rooted in historical and cultural ties, evolving into a modern partnership. These nations are crucial to India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and its Indo-Pacific vision.
Prime Minister Modi is also expected to hold bilateral meetings alongside the summits.
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.
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 development.
Act East Policy -: India’s Act East Policy is a strategy to improve relations with countries in Southeast Asia. It focuses on strengthening economic and cultural ties with these nations.
Indo-Pacific -: The Indo-Pacific is a region that includes the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean. It is important for trade and security, and many countries, including India, have strategies for engaging with this region.
Bilateral meetings -: Bilateral meetings are discussions between two countries. They are held to talk about issues that concern both nations and to strengthen their relationship.