PM Modi Visits Laos for ASEAN and East Asia Summits

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a two-day visit to Laos on Thursday, participating in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit. This visit, initiated by an invitation from Sonexay Siphandone, the Prime Minister of Laos, underscores the significance India places on the ASEAN-India relationship.

Jaideep Mazumdar, the Secretary (East) of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the importance of ASEAN-related mechanisms, stating, “India places immense value on all ASEAN-related mechanisms.” Mazumdar highlighted that the upcoming meetings would help chart the future relationship trajectory between India and ASEAN.

During a special briefing, Mazumdar noted, “Prime Minister Modi will be traveling to Vientiane, Lao PDR, for the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, Sonexay Siphandone. This will be the Prime Minister’s tenth attendance at the ASEAN-India Summit.”

The Indian Ambassador to Lao PDR, Prashant Agrawal, remarked on the impact of India’s Act East policy over the past decade, attributing its evolution to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. Agrawal described it as “a transformational change” fostering robust engagement across various sectors, including trade and connectivity with ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Modi expressed optimism via his social media channel X, noting, “Landed in Lao PDR. Looking forward to deliberations with various world leaders.” His visit also involves reinforcing ties through cultural connections, evident as Modi participated in a blessing ceremony conducted by senior Buddhist monks in Vientiane.

The Ministry of External Affairs reported, “Prime Minister participated in a blessing ceremony by senior Buddhist monks of the Central Buddhist Fellowship Organization of Lao PDR, led by Most Venerable Mahaveth Masenai, the revered abbot of Si Saket temple in Vientiane.” This ceremony highlighted the shared Buddhist heritage between India and Laos.

Modi’s trip aligns with the tenth anniversary of India’s Act East Policy, with India aiming to deepen its partnership and strategic cooperation with ASEAN nations and the broader Indo-Pacific area. The summits present opportunities to address challenges relating to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Upon arrival in Vientiane, Modi was greeted with a ceremonial Guard of Honour, and was warmly welcomed by Laos’ Minister of Home Affairs, Vilayvong Bouddakham.