ASEAN at core of Act East Policy: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that a rapidly growing, democratic and strong India continues to be a beacon of stability, prosperity and peace in times of global uncertainties. In an interview to Bangkok Post, Mr Modi said, 21st century will be Asia's century and India is prepared to contribute to this transformation in Asia and the world. 

Prime Minister said, India remains a strong advocate of strengthening and reforming multilateralism amid contemporary realities. Mr Modi said, today, India is one of the largest contributors to global economic growth and development. In the last few years, India has been actively increasing its contribution in the world, be it fight against climate change, in the field of space or the fight against terror, he said.

Mr Modi said, India has moved up about 80 places in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index and we have done this



within a democratic framework and while preserving the best of our heritage. Prime Minister said, India is seeking to build international partnerships to combat global and trans-boundary challenges. These include the International Solar Alliance and an initiative to build a Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, he said.

Mr Modi said, ASEAN is at the core of India's Act East policy. He said, it is the only cooperative mechanism by which we have had uninterrupted summit-level dialogues for 16 years so far.

Prime Minister said ASEAN is one of the most economically and politically dynamic regions of the world today. India wishes to see a strong, unified and prosperous ASEAN playing a central role in the emerging dynamic of the Indo-Pacific, he said. Mr Modi said, this is in the best interests of India's prosperity and security as well.