ASEAN-India network of universities established

Leaders of ASEAN and India welcomed the positive developments in the bilateral ties since the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit (in New Dehli, January 2018) on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations. 

ASEAN leaders highly praised India for its central role and efforts to beef up regional connectivity and building of the ASEAN community. 

The two sides agreed to continuously broaden the comprehensive ties especially in domains of common benefits including economics, trade, investment; early finalize negotiations for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP); endorse sustainable growth; narrow the  development gap; develop digital technology; optimize opportunities from the 4.0 industrial revolution and maritime cooperation including green aquatic economy, aviation connection, people-to-people exchanges, education, and tourism. 

Indian PM Narendra Modi expressed the concern; praised ASEAN’s efforts in the region; and acknowledged the significant outcomes in the ASEAN-India relations when Viet Nam is the coordinator in the ASEAN-India relations (in 2015-2018 term) and Thailand will overtake the position in the next three years. 

The Indian PM affirmed that India would continue to promote the Look East Policy and respect for ASEAN’s basic principles and the bloc’s central role in the region. 

PM Modi announced that India would provide US$ 1 billion for activities in infrastructure connectivity and digital cooperation; continue to conduct digital technology projects with Viet Nam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar; offer 1,000 scholarships for ASEAN countries; establish a network of ASEAN-India universities; and organize a conference on renewable energy in India in the coming tinme. 

Addressing the event, PM Phuc voiced his support for the two sides to promote maritime cooperation and build a highway which will connect India and Mekong countries./.

By Kim Anh