Assam CM meets EAM Jaishankar, discusses Act East Policy and regional trade opportunities
New Delhi, May 31
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed ways to strengthen the Centre's Act East Policy while exploring Assam's potential role in enhancing trade and tourism ties with neighbouring countries.
Sharing details of the meeting, which took place at EAM's official residence, Sarma on X, described the interaction as insightful and said Jaishankar's perspective on global affairs and India's approach to current geopolitical challenges was always enlightening.
"This morning, I had the pleasure of calling upon Hon'ble External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar ji. His perspective on global affairs and how India is navigating current geopolitical headwinds is always enlightening," the Chief Minister said.
CM Sarma said he thanked the EAM for sharing his insights on further strengthening India's Act East Policy, a key initiative aimed at deepening India's engagement with countries in Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
The Chief Minister also expressed hope for continued guidance from Jaishankar on how Assam can contribute to strengthening trade and tourism linkages with neighbouring nations, leveraging the state's strategic location as a gateway to the Northeast and Southeast Asia.
The discussions come amid ongoing efforts to boost regional connectivity, cross-border commerce and economic cooperation under the Act East framework, with Assam expected to play an increasingly important role in advancing these objectives.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to see Assam CM engaging with EAM. But I hope the Act East Policy also considers local communities and their concerns—like land rights for indigenous tribes near border areas. Economic growth shouldn't come at the cost of displacement. Just a thought. 🙂
This is the kind of diplomacy that actually benefits ordinary people! Assam as a gateway to ASEAN—makes perfect sense. Imagine tourists from Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia visiting Kaziranga and Majuli. Plus, Assamese products like muga silk and bamboo crafts could find huge markets. Let's make it happen!
Interesting to see this push from Assam. The Act East Policy has been talked about for years but actual results on the ground, especially trade volumes with Southeast Asia, have been modest. Hope this isn't just another photo-op. Would love to see specific timelines and targets.
As someone from Guwahati, I'm cautiously optimistic. We've heard many promises about making Assam the 'gateway to Southeast Asia,' but our roads are still poor, and flights to ASEAN countries are limited. Jaishankar sir, please focus on practical steps—like upgrading the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and improving border haats with Myanmar. Baby steps matter.
Jai Hind! This is what we need—regional leaders thinking about economic integration, not just local politics. Assam's location is perfect for connecting India to the Mekong region. But let's not forget the security angle—act East must also mean secure East. Need to tackle insurgent groups in Nag
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.