ENA Global 2024-10-11 16:44:02 <p><span style="font-size:14px"><strong>New Delhi, Oct 11 (KNN)</strong> In a significant move to bolster regional ties, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The announcements came during the ASEAN Summit, which focused on the theme Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Modi proposed declaring 2025 as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, pledging USD 5 million to promote tourism between the regions. To mark a decade of India's Act East Policy, the Prime Minister suggested organising various events involving India and ASEAN countries.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">He also recommended an annual Women Scientists' Conclave under the India-ASEAN Science and Technology Fund.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Education featured prominently in Modi's proposals, with plans to double the number of Masters scholarships for ASEAN students at the newly established Nalanda University.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">A new scholarship scheme for ASEAN students at Indian agricultural universities is set to launch this year, further enhancing educational cooperation.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">On the economic front, Modi emphasized the importance of completing the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement by 2025.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This move is expected to fortify economic relations and contribute to the development of a secure, resilient, and reliable supply chain in the region.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Addressing disaster management, the Prime Minister announced an allocation of USD 5 million from the ASEAN-India Fund for disaster resilience.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">He proposed collaboration between India's National Disaster Management Authority and the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Centre to enhance regional capabilities in this crucial area.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">These initiatives underscore India's commitment to deepening its engagement with ASEAN, spanning tourism, science and technology, education, trade, and disaster management, reflecting a comprehensive approach to regional cooperation.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px"><em><strong>(KNN Bureau)</strong></em></span></p> 39579 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/global/modi-unveils-initiatives-to-strengthen-india-asean-partnership 2024-10-11 16:44:02 knnindia.co.in