Highlighting that the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is a highly-significant strategic and cultural partner for India, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said centuries of trade, maritime links, spiritual exchanges, and shared cultural traditions have strengthened this enduring relationship.
Dr Mohan Yadav was addressing an eight-member delegation of ASEAN mission heads who paid a courtesy visit to the chief minister at Samatva Bhawan (CM’s residence) here on Wednesday.
The delegation is on a three-day visit to Madhya Pradesh.
The MP CM emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ‘Act East Policy’ has gained a new momentum, further enhancing India-ASEAN cooperation in areas such as trade, connectivity, digital partnerships, capacity-building and security.
He said India’s notable progress in infrastructure, Digital India, green energy and climate initiatives has opened new avenues for partnership with ASEAN countries.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, addressing the delegation, said, “Your visit is a living symbol of the deep cultural, economic and people-to-people ties between India and the ASEAN region”. He emphasised that their visit provides a significant opportunity to consolidate India-ASEAN relations and expand the state’s global dialogue. He called for broad collaboration and partnership between India, Madhya Pradesh and ASEAN countries in economic, cultural, industrial investment, science and technology, including innovation.
The chief minister stated that partnerships with ASEAN countries will accelerate industrial development in Madhya Pradesh and promote the exchange of knowledge, technology and innovation.
Dr. Yadav, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange, emphasised tourism development, education and cultural exchange programs. “Our partnership with ASEAN countries is extremely valuable. We see vast potential for cooperation in trade, technology, sustainable development and tourism. Madhya Pradesh offers a confluence of rich culture, exceptional natural beauty, agriculture-based strength and rapid industrial growth. We aim to advance India’s historical and cultural ties with ASEAN with renewed energy and collaboration. There are immense opportunities in investment, tourism, green energy, IT and skill development. Your partnership will elevate this entire region to new heights and open new pathways for mutual progress,” he added.
The high-level delegation included Mahamahim Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustafa, High Commissioner of Malaysia (ASEAN Chair in India), Mahamahim Nguyen Thanh Hai, Ambassador of Vietnam, Mahamahim Jocel F. Ignacio, Ambassador of the Philippines, Mahamahim Rath Mani, Ambassador of Cambodia to India and Sri Lanka, Mahamahim Carlito Nunes, Ambassador of Timor-Leste, Mahamahim Chawanart Thangsumphant, Ambassador of Thailand, Mahamahim Ina H. Krishnamurti, Ambassador of Indonesia to India and Bhutan and Mahamahim Pengiran Mohammad Shafi Alwali bin Pengiran Abu Bakar, Second Secretary of Brunei.
Chief Minister Yadav added, “Your visit is an opportunity to strengthen cooperation, trust and a robust partnership.”