Diplomacy – Jaishankar Urges Stronger India-ASEAN Partnership Amid Global Uncertainty
Diplomacy – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has urged India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to strengthen their strategic partnership, saying closer collaboration is essential to address growing global economic and security challenges.
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation between India and ASEAN, stating that the changing global landscape requires countries to work more closely than ever before. Speaking at the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with India 2026 in Manila, he said the increasing uncertainty across the world has made international partnerships indispensable for maintaining regional stability, economic growth and long-term resilience.
Global Challenges Demand Collective Action
Addressing delegates at the conference, Jaishankar said the event’s theme, “Navigating Our Future Together,” accurately reflected the current international environment. According to him, rising geopolitical tensions, economic disruptions and emerging security concerns have shown that no country or regional bloc can effectively manage today’s complex challenges in isolation.
He stressed that India and ASEAN should continue exploring practical ways to strengthen cooperation in areas that serve their shared interests while preparing for future uncertainties.
Supply Chains and Maritime Trade in Focus
Jaishankar identified supply chain resilience as one of the most pressing issues facing economies worldwide. He noted that recent global disruptions have demonstrated the need to diversify trade networks and reduce vulnerabilities in critical supply chains.
The minister also underlined the importance of secure maritime trade routes, pointing out that many economies across the Indo-Pacific rely heavily on uninterrupted sea-based commerce. He said adherence to international law remains essential for ensuring stability in maritime regions, especially as concerns over shipping and trade security continue to grow.
Highlighting the significance of the current year, Jaishankar noted that 2026 has been designated as the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation, providing an opportunity to deepen collaboration in the maritime domain.
Philippines Recognised for Partnership Role
During his address, Jaishankar acknowledged the Philippines for serving as the country coordinator responsible for advancing the India-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He appreciated its efforts in facilitating stronger engagement between India and the regional bloc as both sides continue expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
Expanding Cooperation Across Key Sectors
The External Affairs Minister said India and ASEAN have built a broad partnership that extends well beyond traditional diplomacy. He highlighted trade, investment, technology, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, talent mobility, sustainability, green development and physical connectivity as areas where both sides can achieve greater progress through deeper engagement.
According to Jaishankar, closer cooperation would help both partners reduce risks arising from global uncertainties while creating more diversified and reliable economic opportunities.
Shared Responsibility for Regional Stability
Jaishankar said India and ASEAN together represent nearly two billion people, giving them a significant role in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region. He observed that both partners have historically contributed to regional peace, stability and development, and should continue working together to ensure a secure and balanced regional order.
While acknowledging ongoing geopolitical challenges, he expressed confidence that both India and ASEAN remain optimistic about their future prospects. He encouraged member countries to remain focused on new opportunities while jointly addressing evolving global risks.
Quad Meeting Also on Minister’s Agenda
Jaishankar is currently visiting the Philippines on a two-day trip. Besides participating in the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference, he is also scheduled to attend the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting alongside his counterparts from Australia, Japan and the United States.
The Quad foreign ministers last met in New Delhi in late May, when US Secretary of State Marco Rubio travelled to India for discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation among the four nations on regional security and strategic issues.