India’s External Affairs Minister concludes Southeast Asia tour to strengthen regional relations

From the editor’s desk

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar recently concluded a significant three-nation Southeast Asia tour, commencing on March 23, aimed at bolstering bilateral relations and addressing regional concerns. During his visit from March 27-28, he engaged with key leaders and officials in Malaysia to strengthen ties and explore avenues for cooperation.

In Malaysia, EAM Jaishankar held productive discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Bin Ibrahim, expressing gratitude for Malaysia's support in enhancing bilateral relations under the India-Malaysia Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Meetings with Foreign Minister Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo further underscored the multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, spanning political, trade, defense, digital, cultural, and educational domains.

The EAM also engaged with the Indian diaspora in Malaysia, acknowledging their contributions to fostering India Malaysia relations. Moreover, he addressed concerns regarding China's actions along the IndiaChina border, emphasizing the importance of upholding bilateral agreements.

Upon his arrival in the Philippines, EAM Jaishankar reaffirmed India's support for the Philippines in light of recent maritime tensions with China in the South China Sea. Stressing adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), he underscored the significance of maritime safety and cooperation between India and the Philippines.

In Singapore, the EAM held discussions with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, focusing on strengthening cooperation in fintech, digitalization, green economy, skills development, and food security. Meetings with Indianorigin Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan highlighted shared interests in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia regions.

Overall, EAM Jaishankar's Southeast Asia tour reflects India's commitment to deepening regional engagement and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships. By addressing key regional issues and enhancing bilateral cooperation, India aims to contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Southeast Asian region.

In this context, India's Act East policy, a strategic initiative aimed at deepening engagement with Southeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region, holds significant relevance in the contemporary global landscape. In an era marked by geopolitical shifts and economic realignments, India's proactive approach towards its eastern neighbors underscores its commitment to fostering regional stability, economic integration, and cultural exchange.

The Act East policy represents a fundamental shift in India's foreign policy orientation, emphasizing the importance of the Indo-Pacific region in shaping the country's strategic interests and economic aspirations. By enhancing diplomatic ties, promoting trade and investment, and strengthening people-topeople contacts, India seeks to leverage the immense potential of the region while addressing common challenges such as maritime security, terrorism, and climate change.

In the current world order characterized by multipolarity and interdependence, India's engagement with the East assumes added significance. As countries across Asia-Pacific increasingly look towards India as a key partner for economic growth and security cooperation, the Act East policy serves as a cornerstone of India's efforts to enhance its regional influence and contribute to the shaping of a peaceful and prosperous IndoPacific region.