India Deepens Ties with ASEAN, Declares 2026 as Year of Maritime Cooperation

New Delhi is bolstering its strategic partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with a particular focus on maritime security, and has designated 2026 as the “Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation.” This initiative underscores India’s commitment to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region and its “Act East” policy.

Strengthening a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated virtually in the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit held in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, 2025, marking his 12th participation in the India-ASEAN Summit [MEA]. During the summit, leaders jointly reviewed progress in ASEAN-India relations and discussed initiatives to strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Modi emphasized that the 21st century belongs to India and ASEAN, describing the regional bloc as a “cultural partner” of India [The Hindu]. He highlighted the partnership’s resilience amidst global uncertainties, positioning it as a robust foundation for global stability and development.

Focus on Maritime Security and Cooperation

A key area of deepened cooperation will be maritime security. Prime Minister Modi announced further collaboration in this domain for 2026 [The Hindu]. This commitment extends to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and the blue economy [NDTV].

The growing cooperation between India and ASEAN is seen as vital for maintaining freedom of navigation and protecting maritime interests in the region.

India’s Role in the Indo-Pacific

India views ASEAN as a “key pillar” of its Act East Policy, reaffirming its commitment to shared growth, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific [OneIndia]. The partnership is considered essential for regional progress and a foundation for peace amid global challenges.

Welcoming Timor-Leste

The summit also welcomed Timor-Leste as the newest member of ASEAN. Modi expressed India’s support for Timor-Leste’s inclusion, noting that India and ASEAN together represent nearly one-fourth of the global population and share historical ties and values [The Hindu].

Looking Ahead

The declaration of 2026 as the Year of ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation signifies a strategic deepening of ties. This initiative is expected to foster greater collaboration on maritime security, economic development, and regional stability, solidifying the India-ASEAN partnership as a crucial force in the Indo-Pacific region.