PM Modi Declares 2026 as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation

New Delhi | October 26, 2025 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced that 2026 will be celebrated as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, underscoring India’s deepening engagement with Southeast Asian nations in maritime security, the blue economy, and humanitarian collaboration. Speaking virtually at the ASEAN-India Summit, PM Modi highlighted the rapid progress in cooperation between India and ASEAN countries, particularly in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime safety, and sustainable ocean development. “India has stood firmly with its ASEAN friends in every crisis. Our partnership in HADR, maritime security, and the blue economy continues to grow rapidly. In light of this, we are declaring 2026 as the ‘ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation,’” he said. The Prime Minister emphasized the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in diverse sectors such as education, tourism, science and technology, health, green energy, and cybersecurity. He described the 21st century as “India and ASEAN’s century,” pointing to shared aspirations and a joint commitment to peace and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region. Reaffirming ASEAN’s central role in India’s Act East Policy, Modi reiterated India’s steadfast support for ASEAN centrality and its Indo-Pacific outlook. “India and ASEAN together represent nearly a quarter of the world’s population. We are not only bound by geography but also by deep historical and cultural ties. Our partnership is not just commercial—it is a reflection of shared values and collective progress,” he noted. PM Modi lauded the steady progress made under the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, calling it a “powerful foundation for global stability and growth.” He also praised the theme of this year’s ASEAN Summit — Inclusivity and Sustainability — saying it aligns perfectly with the joint efforts of India and ASEAN to ensure digital inclusion, food security, and resilient supply chains amid global challenges. During his address, Modi congratulated Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for successfully hosting the ASEAN Summit and thanked Philippines President Bongbong Marcos for serving as the country coordinator for India. He also extended warm congratulations to Timor-Leste on joining ASEAN, marking an important milestone for the regional bloc. Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Modi offered condolences to the people and royal family of Thailand on the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit, reflecting India’s solidarity with ASEAN nations in both moments of progress and grief. The declaration of 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation highlights India’s strategic focus on maritime diplomacy, sustainable ocean development, and regional security collaboration. It also reinforces India’s long-term commitment to strengthening its ties with Southeast Asia as part of its broader Indo-Pacific vision. PM Modi Declares 2026 as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that 2026 will be observed as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, highlighting growing collaboration in maritime security, the blue economy, and humanitarian assistance. Speaking at the ASEAN-India Summit, Modi emphasized the deep cultural and historical ties between India and ASEAN, calling their partnership a pillar of stability and growth in the Indo-Pacific. He reaffirmed India’s support for ASEAN centrality and cooperation in fields like education, green energy, and technology. The declaration marks a step toward strengthening regional unity and advancing sustainable maritime and economic development across Asia’s interconnected waters.