ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership Emphasized at Manila Conference

Manila, July 22 – At the opening of the India‑ASEAN post‑ministerial conference, Foreign Minister S. Jayashankar called for a robust strategic partnership between India and the Southeast Asian bloc, citing the heightened unpredictability of the international scene.

He expressed gratitude to the Philippines for its hospitality and highlighted the country’s role as a key coordinator in advancing the India‑ASEAN strategic agenda.

“The theme ‘Advancing Our Future Together’ resonates with the collective sentiment that the world is facing unprecedented volatility. No single nation can navigate this alone,” he asserted.

The minister urged ASEAN members to think ahead, exploring how stronger collaboration can more effectively serve shared interests in a fast‑evolving global landscape.

Addressing pressing challenges, he warned of mounting pressures on supply chains affecting energy, food and health security, and stressed the importance of respecting maritime law. He also announced 2026 as the ASEAN‑India Maritime Cooperation Year, framing it as a timely signal for joint action toward stability and safety at sea.