India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered his opening remarks at the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with India in Manila, Philippines, marking a critical engagement in India's ongoing strategic outreach to Southeast Asia. The conference is part of the broader diplomatic convergence taking place in the Philippine capital this week.
59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting
The high-stakes diplomatic gathering, officially the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, was formally opened on Tuesday, July 21, by Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro. Acting as the chair, the Philippines is hosting top diplomats from member states and key global allies. The proceedings included a Gala Dinner attended by ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, setting the stage for discussions aimed at fostering cooperation and stability across the Indo-Pacific.
India's Act East Policy
In a post on the social media platform X, Jaishankar shared a video of his opening address. For India, the 10-nation bloc remains the cornerstone of its 'Act East' policy and broader Indo-Pacific vision. Both sides have been actively working towards enhancing their economic ties, including discussions around a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement to boost regional commerce.
Global Leaders Gather
The strategic importance of the Manila meetings is underscored by the presence of other major global figures. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also arrived in the city to attend the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conferences. During his visit, Rubio is expected to pay a courtesy call to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., further cementing international focus on the region's geopolitical landscape.
