PM Modi Declares 2026 As ASEAN-India Year Of Maritime Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced 2026 as the “ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation.”
He made this declaration while addressing the ASEAN-India Summit held virtually on Sunday.

The announcement shows India’s growing focus on working with ASEAN countries (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) to promote maritime security, blue economy, and regional peace under the Act East Policy.

PM Modi Declares 2026 As ASEAN-India Year Of Maritime Cooperation

Strengthening Maritime and Strategic Collaboration

PM Modi said that India and ASEAN will increase cooperation in:

• Maritime security
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
• Sustainable ocean development

He highlighted that such cooperation is essential for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, ensuring a free, open, and inclusive maritime domain.

ASEAN as the Pillar of India’s Act East Policy

PM Modi described ASEAN as the main pillar of India’s Act East Policy.
He said that the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is now becoming a strong framework for regional and global growth.
He also reaffirmed India’s full support for ASEAN centrality and its Indo-Pacific outlook.

Shared Values and Common Goals

PM Modi noted that:

• India and ASEAN together represent about 25% of the world’s population.
• Both share deep cultural, historical, and civilisational links.
• They are fellow travellers of the Global South, working together for development and cooperation.

He also called for stronger ties in:

• Education
• Tourism
• Health
• Science & Technology
• Green Energy
• Cybersecurity

Regional Cooperation and Diplomatic Engagements

During the summit, PM Modi:

• Congratulated Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for hosting the ASEAN Summit.
• Appreciated Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for coordinating India’s ASEAN engagement.
• Congratulated Timor-Leste for joining ASEAN.
• Offered condolences to Thailand on the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit.

He reaffirmed India’s long-term commitment to a peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific region.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Event: ASEAN-India Summit (Virtual)
• Announcement: 2026 declared as ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation
• By: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Main Focus Areas: Maritime security, blue economy, sustainable ocean development
• Policy Framework: Act East Policy & Indo-Pacific Strategy
• ASEAN’s 2025 Theme: Inclusivity and Sustainability
• India–ASEAN Population Share: Nearly 25% of the world’s population
• Host Country (2025 Summit): Malaysia
• New ASEAN Member: Timor-Leste

Question & Answer

Q1. Who declared 2026 as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation?
(a) Dr. S. Jaishankar
(b) Narendra Modi
(c) Anwar Ibrahim
(d) Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Answer: Narendra Modi

Q2. What is the main aim of the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation?
(a) To promote agricultural development
(b) To strengthen maritime security and blue economy
(c) To improve air connectivity
(d) To establish a free trade zone
Answer: To strengthen maritime security and blue economy

Q3. Under which Indian policy does ASEAN play a major role?
(a) Neighbourhood First Policy
(b) Act East Policy
(c) Indo-Pacific Oceans Policy
(d) SAGAR Initiative
Answer: Act East Policy

Q4. What is ASEAN’s theme for the year 2025?
(a) Unity and Peace
(b) Inclusivity and Sustainability
(c) Innovation and Growth
(d) Partnership for Prosperity
Answer: Inclusivity and Sustainability

Q5. Which new country has joined ASEAN recently?
(a) Nepal
(b) Timor-Leste
(c) Sri Lanka
(d) Bangladesh
Answer: Timor-Leste

Also Read

🔗 Other Useful Links:
📌 Check Latest Government Job Vacancies
📌 View the Latest Exam Results
📌 Click Here to Take Free Mock Tests