Rajnath Singh Says India-ASEAN Partnership Is Key to Indo-Pacific Peace and Stability

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stressed the need for stronger cooperation between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), saying collective efforts are essential to maintaining peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region. Addressing the first ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum in New Delhi on October 14, Singh highlighted the importance of mutual trust, respect for national sovereignty and adherence to international law in addressing emerging regional challenges. He emphasised that India and ASEAN must work together to promote a peaceful, open and inclusive regional order amid evolving geopolitical developments.

The Indo-Pacific has become increasingly significant for global trade, energy supplies and international security. Maritime routes connecting the Indian Ocean with Southeast Asia play a crucial role in transporting goods and energy resources, making their security a shared concern for countries across the region.

Singh's remarks underline India's efforts to strengthen its strategic partnership with ASEAN at a time when maritime security, geopolitical competition and emerging technological threats are shaping regional priorities. Closer cooperation between the two sides could help improve information-sharing, strengthen maritime surveillance and enhance coordination among defence and security agencies.

The ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026 provides an opportunity to expand collaboration in maritime security, naval engagement and regional capacity-building. Both sides have an interest in ensuring that international shipping routes remain secure and that disputes are addressed through dialogue and established international rules.

Defence technology and industrial cooperation are also expected to remain important areas of engagement. India's expanding domestic defence manufacturing capabilities could create opportunities for joint research, technology development and industrial partnerships with Southeast Asian countries. Cooperation in cybersecurity, surveillance systems and unmanned technologies could further strengthen regional preparedness against evolving security threats.

Beyond conventional defence concerns, India and ASEAN face shared challenges such as cybercrime, terrorism, human trafficking and natural disasters. Greater coordination in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief could improve emergency preparedness and help protect vulnerable communities across the region.

India's partnership with ASEAN is a central pillar of its Act East Policy, which aims to deepen political, economic and strategic engagement with Southeast Asia. Over the years, the relationship has expanded beyond trade and cultural exchanges to include defence cooperation, connectivity and regional security. The defence think tank forum in New Delhi brought together experts to discuss emerging security concerns and explore ways to strengthen cooperation between India and ASEAN. Such platforms can help policymakers identify common priorities and develop practical approaches to regional challenges.

Singh's message reinforces India's position that lasting stability in the Indo-Pacific requires sustained dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation among regional countries. As geopolitical uncertainties continue to influence the region, stronger India-ASEAN relations could play an important role in supporting a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.