Jaishankar advocates stronger ASEAN ties amid global shifts - Greater Kashmir

New Delhi, Nov 8: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar delivered a keynote address at the 8th Roundtable of the ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks, focusing on the evolving global landscape and the strategic importance of the ASEAN-India partnership. The theme of the event was “Navigating a World in Transition: Agenda for the ASEAN-India Partnership.”

Highlights

Global Shifts and Economic Challenges

Dr. Jaishankar highlighted three major global events shaping today’s world: China’s entry into the WTO in 2001, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. “These events have profoundly impacted globalisation, exposed economic vulnerabilities, and accelerated the need for resilient supply chains,” he noted. He stressed the importance of re-globalisation rather than de-globalisation, particularly for ASEAN and India, to effectively navigate this transition.

India’s Commitment to Resilient Supply Chains

The minister emphasised India’s proactive approach in enhancing manufacturing capabilities and supply chain resilience. He mentioned the establishment of 12 new industrial parks and the growing number of Global Capability Centres in India, nearing 2,000, as examples of initiatives aimed at boosting economic cooperation with ASEAN. “We see new opportunities in diversified production, green technologies, and digital transformation,” Dr. Jaishankar stated.

Collaborative Connectivity in Digital and Physical Infrastructure

Highlighting India’s commitment to connectivity, Dr. Jaishankar discussed projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, the Trilateral Highway to Southeast Asia, and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). He underscored the importance of collaborative initiatives, saying, “Collaborative connectivity is more sustainable and beneficial than unilateral ventures, be it in logistics, digital payments, or energy networks.”

Green Technology and Digital Economy

Dr. Jaishankar pointed to emerging sectors like green hydrogen, green ammonia, and sustainable infrastructure as key areas for ASEAN-India collaboration. He also highlighted the potential of the digital economy, urging the development of shared payment platforms, data centers, and semiconductor facilities. “As we enter the knowledge economy and the era of AI, enhancing skills and fostering mobility will be essential to staying competitive,” he added.

Strengthening Cultural and Civilizational Ties

The minister also emphasised the historical and cultural connections between India and ASEAN, noting recent efforts in heritage restoration and cultural exchanges. “Our shared cultural heritage lays a strong foundation for deeper people-to-people ties and mutual understanding,” he said.

Bilateral Meetings with Singapore Leadership

During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar held separate meetings with Singapore’s top officials, including President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, and Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen. In his discussions with the Defence Minister, he shared insights on the Indo-Pacific security landscape and explored ways to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. He tweeted, “Good to meet Defence Minister @Ng_Eng_Hen of Singapore today. Shared perspectives on the Indo-Pacific security situation and bilateral defence cooperation.”

Calling on President Tharman, Dr. Jaishankar discussed global political and economic issues affecting both nations. He shared on Twitter, “Called on President @Tharman_S of Singapore. Discussed the global political and economic scenario, and its implications for India and Singapore.”

Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to Singapore follows his recent trip to Australia, where he inaugurated India’s 4th consulate in the country and co-chaired the 15th Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. He also delivered a keynote at the 2nd Raisina Down Under forum in Canberra, emphasizing India’s strategic outreach and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.