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Enhancing connectivity central to Indias partnership with ASEAN: PM Modi

by IBNS 08 Sep 2016, 06:51 am

Vientiane, Laos, Sept 8 (IBNS): Attending his third India-ASEAN summit on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that enhancement of connectivity is central policy to India's partnership with the ASEAN.

"Enhancing connectivity central to India’s partnership with ASEAN. Engagement driven by linking our economic success & development experiences," he said.


"ASEAN is central to India's 'Act East' Policy," the PM added.

Speaking on the common goals, Prime Minister Modi said, "Our engagement is driven by common priorities, bringing peace, stability and prosperity to region."

"Strategic partnership covers security, economic and socio-cultural spheres. ASEAN India PoA (2016-20) serving well - 54 activities implemented," he said.

Highlighting the common security threats, PM Modi said, "Export of terror, growing radicalization and spread of extreme violence are common security threats to our societies."

Prime Minister Modi also announced that India will be hosting Commemorative Summit on “Shared Values, Common Destiny” in 2017.

In his speech, PM Modi said that India supports the freedom of navigation, provided they are based on UNCLOS (The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).

"Sea lanes are life lines of global trade. India supports freedom of navigation based on ÚNCLOS," he said.

His speech also underscored the importance of countering cyber terrorism as he said that India is willing to take concrete steps to tackle such happenings.

"We are willing to take concrete steps to enhance coop in cyber security, de-radicalization and Counter Terrorism."

The Prime Minister addressed natural disasters as 'common challenge' and 'joint priority' and announced a conference in India in November, later this year.

"Natural Disasters a common challenge & joint priority. India will host Asian Ministerial Conf on Disaster Risk Reduction in November."