New Delhi, Oct 11 (FN Agency) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday left for Lao PDR to participate in the 21st Asean-India and the 19th East Asia Summit. He said this year is special as it marks a decade of the government’s Act East Policy which has brought substantial benefits for the nation. In a post on X, the PM said that he would also be holding various bilateral meetings and having interactions with world leaders during the visit. “Leaving for Lao PDR to take part in the 21st ASEAN-India and 19th East Asia Summit. This is a special year as we mark a decade of our Act East Policy, which has led to substantial benefits for our nation. There will also be various bilateral meetings and interactions with various world leaders during this visit.”
In a statement, the PM said that the East Asia Summit will provide an opportunity to deliberate on the challenges to peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. “Today, I am embarking on a two day visit to Vientiane, Lao PDR at the invitation of Prime Minister Mr. Sonexay Siphandone to participate in the 21st ASEAN-India and the 19th East Asia Summit.“This year we are marking a decade of our Act East Policy. I will join the ASEAN leaders to review progress in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of our cooperation. “The East Asia Summit will provide an opportunity to deliberate on the challenges to peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. “We share close cultural and civilisational ties with the region, including with Lao PDR, which are enriched by shared heritage of Buddhism and Ramayana. I look forward to my meetings with the Lao PDR leadership to further strengthen our bilateral ties. “I am confident that this visit will further deepen our engagement with ASEAN countries.” The MEA spokesperson said in a post on X: “India’s Act East policy: A decade old commitment growing strong! “PM @narendramodi embarks on a 2 day visit to Lao PDR, to participate in the 21st ASEAN-India and 19th East Asia Summit.”