"It is only through deeper cooperation we can de-risk and diversify": Jaishankar at ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with India 2026 in Manila
Manila, July 22
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasised that energy, food and health security can "no longer be taken for granted" and said that both India and ASEAN are "optimistic about their prospects".
Delivering his opening remarks at the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with India 2026 in Manila, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also underlined the importance of maritime trade.
"... Energy, food, and health security can no longer be taken for granted. Because we are all so dependent on maritime trade, that too could become a source of anxiety. Observing international law, in that regard, is therefore vital. Coincidentally, 2026 is the ASEAN-India year of maritime cooperation. It is a timely reminder of what we can do for a more stable and secure future. Both India and ASEAN are optimistic about their prospects... The India-ASEAN agenda today covers trade and investment, mobility and talent, tech, digital and AI, green and sustainability, as well as connectivity. It is only through deeper cooperation that we can de-risk and diversify...
His remarks come as the Philippines has assumed the ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a visit to Manila, Philippines, to participate in several Foreign Minister-level meetings under the ASEAN framework.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated earlier that Jaishankar will be taking part in ASEAN-India, East Asia Summit (EAS) and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) meetings during his visit from July 22 to 23.
It added that the EAM will also be participating in a Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN-related meetings. He is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts.
The Philippines assumed the ASEAN Chairship for 2026 under the theme "Navigating Our Future, Together", focusing on regional peace and security, economic integration, digital transformation, inclusive growth and people empowerment.
The chairship comes at a time when ASEAN seeks to strengthen resilience amid global uncertainties while advancing cooperation among member states and external partners, including India.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Maritime trade is our lifeline. Look at the Red Sea situation last year! We need ASEAN more than ever. But I hope Jaishankar is also pushing for better treatment of Indian professionals in some ASEAN countries.
As someone watching from the West, I'm impressed by India's proactive diplomacy in Southeast Asia. "De-risk and diversify" is wise counsel in today's fractured world. The Quad meeting on the sidelines is also interesting.
"Optimistic about their prospects" - that's the Indian way! But words need to translate into trade numbers. Our exports to ASEAN have room to grow. And please, let's get the RCEP renegotiation back on the table.
The ASEAN-India year of maritime cooperation is timely indeed. With the South China Sea always in news, India can be a stabilizing force. But let's also focus on sustainability and green tech - that's the future. 🌱🌊
Interesting to see India balancing China's influence in ASEAN. The Quad meeting alongside these talks is a clear signal. But I hope the focus remains on economic cooperation, not just geopolitics. Trade benefits everyone.
As a student of international relations, this is exciting
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