A joint statement further emphasizes collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and India have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advancing digital transformation initiatives across the region. During the 21st ASEAN-India Summit, held today in Vientiane, Lao PDR, both sides released two critical joint statements addressing the future of their cooperation.

The ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Advancing Digital Transformation outlines a comprehensive strategy to enhance digital public infrastructure (DPI), financial technology (FinTech), cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration. 

Recognizing the vital role of DPI in fostering inclusivity, efficiency, and innovation, India and ASEAN member states aim to share knowledge and experiences to develop effective governance frameworks.

India's efforts in supporting the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 (ADM 2025) were highlighted, and appreciation was expressed for the nation's role in knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives, particularly through the establishment of Centers of Excellence in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. India’s launch of the ASEAN-India Fund for Digital Future also marks a significant step in bolstering regional digital transformation efforts.

The new ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2026-2030 (ADM 2030) builds upon the achievements of ADM 2025, aiming to expedite digital transformation and prepare ASEAN for the next phase of digital advancement by 2030. The collaboration focuses on leveraging DPI across various sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and climate action, with joint initiatives aimed at connecting communities and industries across borders.

Enhancing Financial Technology and Cybersecurity
 ASEAN and India have also identified financial technology as a crucial driver for bilateral economic growth. The statement calls for cross-border linkages between ASEAN and India's payment systems, enabling seamless digital service delivery. Collaborative efforts in fintech will involve partnerships between national agencies to support the development of innovative digital solutions, including digital financial services.

Cybersecurity emerged as a focal point, with the ASEAN India Track 1 Cyber Policy Dialogue set to hold its first meeting this month. The statement emphasizes expanding cybersecurity cooperation to ensure the security and resilience of digital infrastructure and services in an increasingly interconnected economy. Both sides intend to build a robust cybersecurity framework to support the burgeoning digital economy and protect critical information.

The joint statement further emphasizes collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). ASEAN and India plan to develop knowledge, skills, and policies to leverage AI effectively while ensuring its responsible use. Collaboration efforts will focus on making AI technologies accessible, enhancing capacity building, and establishing vocational training programs to prepare the workforce for AI-driven changes in job landscapes.

Both sides aim to ensure equitable access and trustworthy AI by establishing governance frameworks that prioritize fairness, robustness, and inclusivity. Research on AI's societal impact will be conducted to align technological advancements with the needs and aspirations of both regions.

Building Regional Stability: Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
 In parallel, the Joint Statement on Strengthening ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership emphasized regional peace, stability, and prosperity. The statement reaffirms the commitment of ASEAN and India to uphold multilateralism and international law, with a particular focus on maritime security and freedom of navigation. The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) remains the legal framework guiding these efforts.

India's Act East Policy continues to be central to ASEAN-India relations, placing ASEAN at the forefront of India's regional diplomacy. The statement highlights the importance of strengthening defense and security collaboration, with joint military exercises and port calls by naval ships as key initiatives. Maritime security, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and humanitarian assistance are among the priority areas for cooperation, reinforcing the two sides' commitment to regional stability.

Economic cooperation is another crucial element of the ASEAN-India partnership. The summit saw both parties discussing the need to expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to facilitate business and enhance economic ties. Emphasis was placed on ensuring secure, transparent, and resilient supply chains, especially in the context of emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and 6-G technology.

To promote people-to-people connections, ASEAN and India have proposed designating 2025 as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism. This initiative aims to strengthen tourism ties, enhance tourism education, and expand business networks in the travel industry. Sustainable tourism practices will also be encouraged to ensure economic prosperity while promoting responsible tourism.

Cooperation in Public Health, Climate Change, and Connectivity
 The joint statement also outlines cooperation in public health, focusing on vaccine development, traditional medicine, and healthcare professional training. Additionally, climate change remains a critical area of collaboration, with both sides exploring clean and renewable energy solutions aligned with their national priorities.

Connectivity between ASEAN and India was highlighted as essential for regional integration. The "Connecting the Connectivities" approach will seek to integrate the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 with India's initiatives, ensuring seamless regional connectivity. The completion and operationalization of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, with further extensions to Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, are expected to play a vital role.

The summit concluded with both ASEAN and India reiterating their commitment to strengthening multilateralism. By working through international frameworks such as the United Nations and other multilateral processes, they aim to address global challenges, promote sustainable development, and uphold the principles of international law.

The two sides look forward to deepening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through continued collaboration in defense, economy, technology, and people-to-people connections, ensuring a prosperous and stable Indo-Pacific region.