Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India took center stage at the recent East Asia Summit (EAS), becoming the first leader to be invited to address the gathering after the host and incoming chair. This prominent position underscores India’s increasing prominence and vital role within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Sources close to the event have highlighted the significance of this invitation, signaling India’s rising influence in the region.
Further highlighting India’s commitment to the EAS, Prime Minister Modi was recognized as the only leader present who has participated in the most summits – a remarkable nine out of the 19 held since the inaugural event in 2005.
Established in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the annual East Asia Summit convenes heads of state and government from participating countries. The summit initially comprised 16 nations, including the ASEAN Member States, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. In 2011, the United States and Russia joined the forum at the 6th East Asia Summit in Bali.
Prime Minister Modi’s prominent role at the EAS demonstrates India’s commitment to regional cooperation and its growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region. His participation in the summit underscores India’s strategic vision for a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
