ASEAN is central to India's 'Act East' policy: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, ASEAN is central to India's 'Act East' policy and India-ASEAN relations are driven by common priorities, bringing peace, stability and prosperity to the region. Mr Modi was addressing the 14th ASEAN-INDIA Summit in Laos capital Vientiane this morning. He said, enhancing connectivity is central to India's partnership with ASEAN which is driven by linking our economic success and development experiences.

Expressing deep concern over terrorism, Mr Modi said Export of Terror, growing radicalization and spread of extreme violence are common security threats to our societies.

The Prime Minister also announced hosting a commemorative summit on shared values, common destiny next year to celebrate 25 years of dialogue partnership, 15 years of summit level interaction and 5 years of strategic partnership with ASEAN.Mr Modi and



leaders of 10 ASEAN Nations participated in the summit.

Later today, the Prime Minister will also attend the East Asia Summit. At the summit, leaders will discuss matters of regional and international concern, including maritime security, terrorism, non-proliferation and irregular migration.

Mr Modi will have a bilateral meeting with US President Barack Obama today. Mr Modi will also have bilateral meetings with South Korean President Park Geun-hye and State Counsellor of Myanmar Aung San Suu Kyi. This morning, he met his Lao PDR counterpart Thongloun Sisoulith.

Last evening, Mr Modi met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe. The two leaders held discussions on making the ties stronger and more diverse in the areas of trade and investment, civil nuclear energy and counter terrorism.The Prime Minister will leave for Delhi in the afternoon.