'21st century is century of India, ASEAN countries': PM Modi in Laos

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described 21st century as the "century of India and ASEAN countries," adding that the trade in the region had almost doubled, exceding $130 billion.

"I believe that the 21st century is the century of India and ASEAN countries. Today, when there is a situation of conflict and tension in many parts of the world, the friendship, cooperation, dialogue and cooperation of India and ASEAN are very important," PM Modi said in Laos .

"I had announced India's Act-East policy. In the last decade, this policy has given new energy, direction and momentum to the historic relations between India and ASEAN countries. Giving prominence to ASEAN, in 1991 we launched the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative. This complements the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific," he added.

He also mentioned that the establishment of fintech connectivity is being mirrored in the ASEAN countries, following the model implemented in Singapore.

"Last year, maritime exercises for regional security and stability were started. In the last 10 years, our trade with the ASEAN region has almost doubled to over 130 billion dollars. Today, India has direct flight connectivity with 7 ASEAN countries and soon direct flights will start with Brunei as well. We have opened new consulates in Timor Leste. Singapore was the first country in the ASEAN region with which we established fintech connectivity and now this is being replicated in other countries as well," he said.

PM Modi is visiting Laos at the invitation of prime minister Sonexay Siphandone. During his trip, he will also participate in the 19th East Asia Summit.