Chairman’s remarks at Regional Conclave on ASEAN
Ambassador Rajiv Bhatia, Distinguished Fellow, Gateway House gave the Chairman’s Remarks at ‘Regional Conclave on ASEAN@50 and India-ASEAN Relations’ in Bengaluru
Ambassador Rajiv Bhatia, Distinguished Fellow, Gateway House gave the Chairman’s Remarks at ‘Regional Conclave on ASEAN@50 and India-ASEAN Relations’ in Bengaluru
This regional grouping of 10 nations, which observes its golden jubilee year in 2017, has come a long way from the Cold War era when it was founded, making a significant contribution to peace, security and prosperity. Now, its future prospects and “centrality” look uncertain amidst the region’s changing geopolitics
After bilateral meetings, the thrust for Prime Minister Modi will now change with various multilateral summits coming up, starting with India-ASEAN and the East Asia Summit next week. These are opportunities to expand India’s regional position and economic links, and address issues such as terrorism and a rising China
Myanmar, currently listed as one of the least developed nations by the UN, provides its neighbouring countries the opportunity to invest in one of the world’s last few business frontiers. Sushma Swaraj on her maiden visit to Nay Pyi Taw should continue to strengthen ties based on economic goals to develop largely underdeveloped areas along the common border as well use Myanmar’s increasing weight in the ASEAN grouping