New Delhi – In a powerful address at the 21st India-ASEAN Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the critical importance of the friendship between India and the ASEAN nations, particularly in light of ongoing global conflicts and tensions. “India-ASEAN friendship is crucial when some parts of the world are in conflict and tension,” Modi remarked, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. Prime Minister Modi confidently declared that the 21st century belongs to ASEAN and India, positioning both as pivotal players in the future of global affairs. Reflecting on the past decade, he noted that the 'Act East Policy'—announced ten years ago—has significantly transformed India’s relations with ASEAN countries, giving them a new dimension. “This century is the century of Asia. This century belongs to Asia and India,” he stated emphatically. The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to peace, mutual respect, and the sovereignty of all nations, pledging to enhance the future opportunities for the youth in the region. He highlighted the launch of the 'Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative' in 2019, which places ASEAN countries at the forefront of regional collaboration. Modi also mentioned the successful naval exercises conducted last year, aimed at bolstering regional security and stability. “India's trade with ASEAN has doubled in the last decade,” Modi pointed out, signaling the growing economic partnership between the nations. He described the summit's atmosphere as positive, indicating fruitful discussions focused on enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the ASEAN member states. The ASEAN member states participating in the summit include Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, India, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Brunei. Additionally, the East Asia Summit includes ten ASEAN countries and eight partner nations, comprising Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia, and the USA. In a cultural moment that bridged historical ties, Modi attended a performance of 'Lao Ramayana' presented by artists from Laos, noting the significance of this cultural exchange. He remarked that the performance exemplified the long-standing cultural connections between India and Laos, highlighting the unique adaptations of the Ramayana in the Lao tradition. As the summit progresses, the focus remains on fostering collaboration and advancing mutual interests among India and ASEAN countries, reinforcing Modi's vision of a united and prosperous Asia in the 21st century.