Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that 2026 will be celebrated as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, strengthening ties between India and the 10-nation ASEAN bloc. This declaration came during his virtual address at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit on October 25, 2025, hosted by Malaysia. Modi highlighted how shared oceans connect India and ASEAN through history, culture, and trade, aiming to boost regional peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
The initiative focuses on key areas like maritime security, disaster relief, and the blue economy, which includes sustainable fisheries and sea-based projects. India has supported ASEAN during crises, with growing cooperation in these fields. Modi reaffirmed India’s Act East Policy, where ASEAN is a cornerstone, and pledged full support for ASEAN centrality in the Indo-Pacific. The partnership, now a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, covers education, tourism, science, technology, health, green energy, and cybersecurity.
India-ASEAN relations date back to 1992 as a sectoral partnership, evolving to a full dialogue in 1995, summit-level in 2002, and strategic in 2012. Together, they represent nearly one-fourth of the world’s population, driving economic and cultural bonds. Modi linked this to ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goals for a shared future. He also announced the East Asia Summit Maritime Heritage Festival in Lothal, Gujarat, to celebrate cultural ties.
This move signals deeper collaboration amid global uncertainties, enhancing trade, investment, and security. Leaders from Southeast Asia welcomed the step, viewing it as vital for Indo-Pacific stability. With India’s growing role, 2026 promises stronger maritime partnerships for mutual growth.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What is the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation?
It is a 2026 initiative declared by PM Modi to enhance partnerships in maritime security, blue economy, and disaster relief between India and ASEAN nations.
2. Why did PM Modi make this announcement?
During the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, Modi aimed to deepen ties under Act East Policy, focusing on shared oceans for trade, culture, and Indo-Pacific stability.
3. What areas will this year cover?
Key focuses include sustainable fisheries, sea infrastructure, education, tourism, green energy, and cybersecurity to build a brighter future for both regions.