25th Anniversary Of ASEAN India Dialogue Relations And Delhi Declaration

In 2018, a summit commemorating the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations culminated in the signing of the Delhi Declaration. This declaration underscored the importance of fostering stable and sustainable growth for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and reaffirmed the commitment to enhancing both physical and digital connectivity, aligning with the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 and the ASEAN ICT Master Plan (AIMS 2020).

The anniversary also served as a platform to reflect on the evolution of India's relationship with ASEAN, which began in 1992 with dialogue partnership in limited sectors, progressed to full dialogue partner status in 1995, membership in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in 1996, and ultimately, a strategic partnership in 2012. Foundational documents such as the “ASEAN-India Partnership for Peace, Progress, and Shared Prosperity” (2004) and the “Plan of Action” (2012) were highlighted. India's Look East Policy, now the Act East Policy, has significantly contributed to the strengthening of ties with ASEAN. The boost in trade and economic cooperation has been backed by an FTA in goods (2009) and an FTA in services and investments (2014), along with Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreements (CECA) with ASEAN countries. As part of the celebrations, the 4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference was held in Rajgir, Bihar, focusing on “State and Social Order in Dharma-Dhamma Traditions.”

A Quarter Century of Dialogue: India and ASEAN's Deepening Partnership

The year 2018 marked a significant milestone in the relationship between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): the 25th anniversary of their Dialogue Relations. This anniversary was not merely a symbolic celebration but an opportunity to reaffirm commitments, assess progress, and chart a course for the future. The summit held to commemorate this occasion, and the resultant Delhi Declaration, underscored the deepening ties and shared aspirations between India and the ten member states of ASEAN. The emphasis on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and enhanced connectivity, both physical and digital, highlighted the practical focus of the partnership, aiming to translate diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic benefits for the citizens of both regions.

From Look East to Act East: A Policy Evolution

To understand the significance of this anniversary and the Delhi Declaration, it is crucial to trace the evolution of India's engagement with Southeast Asia. In the early 1990s, India embarked on a transformative journey with its "Look East" policy. This policy, initiated in the aftermath of the Cold War and India's own economic liberalization, recognized the growing economic dynamism of Southeast Asia and sought to forge closer ties with the region. The initial focus was primarily economic, aiming to tap into the region's burgeoning markets and attract investment. However, as India's own economic strength grew and its strategic outlook broadened, the Look East policy evolved into the more comprehensive "Act East" policy under the Modi government.

The Act East policy represents a more proactive and multifaceted approach, encompassing not only economic cooperation but also strategic, security, and cultural dimensions. It signifies India's intention to play a more active role in the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to its stability and prosperity. This shift in policy reflects a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the region and the growing importance of Southeast Asia in India's overall foreign policy calculus.

The Genesis of Dialogue: A Step-by-Step Approach

The journey from a limited dialogue partnership to a strategic partnership was a gradual but steady process. In 1992, India became a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN, focusing initially on areas such as trade, investment, tourism, and science and technology. This was a modest beginning, but it laid the foundation for closer interaction and understanding. In 1995, India was elevated to a full dialogue partner, signifying a broader scope of engagement and a greater degree of trust and confidence. This allowed for discussions on a wider range of issues, including political and security matters.

The year 1996 marked another significant step with India's membership in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). The ARF is a multilateral platform for security dialogue and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, bringing together ASEAN member states and their dialogue partners, including major powers such as the United States, China, Japan, and Russia. India's participation in the ARF provided a valuable opportunity to engage in discussions on regional security issues, share perspectives, and build consensus on common challenges.

The culmination of this gradual process came in 2012 when India and ASEAN established a strategic partnership. This elevated the relationship to a new level, recognizing the growing strategic convergence between the two sides and their shared interest in a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The strategic partnership provided a framework for enhanced cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and disaster management.

Key Documents: Guiding Principles of the Partnership

Several key documents have shaped and guided the ASEAN-India partnership over the years. The "ASEAN-India Partnership for Peace, Progress, and Shared Prosperity," signed in 2004, laid out a comprehensive vision for the relationship, emphasizing the importance of peace, stability, and economic development. It identified key areas of cooperation, including trade and investment, science and technology, human resource development, and cultural exchange.

The "Plan of Action," regularly updated, provides a roadmap for implementing the vision outlined in the Partnership for Peace, Progress, and Shared Prosperity. It sets out specific goals and targets for cooperation in various sectors and identifies the mechanisms for achieving them. These documents reflect a shared commitment to a long-term, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial partnership.

Focus on MSMEs: Engines of Growth and Innovation

The Delhi Declaration's emphasis on the promotion of stable and sustainable growth for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) highlights the recognition of their crucial role in economic development. MSMEs are the backbone of many economies, providing employment, driving innovation, and contributing to overall economic growth. In both India and ASEAN countries, MSMEs play a vital role in generating jobs, particularly for women and young people.

Supporting MSMEs is therefore essential for inclusive and sustainable growth. The Delhi Declaration recognizes the need to create a supportive environment for MSMEs, including access to finance, technology, and markets. It also emphasizes the importance of promoting entrepreneurship and innovation among MSMEs. This focus reflects a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared widely and that MSMEs are empowered to contribute to the prosperity of both India and ASEAN.

Connectivity: Bridging the Divide, Fostering Integration

The Delhi Declaration's reaffirmation of the commitment to enhance physical and digital connectivity is another key aspect of the ASEAN-India partnership. Connectivity is essential for facilitating trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges. It also plays a crucial role in promoting regional integration and reducing disparities.

The Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 provides a strategic framework for enhancing connectivity within ASEAN, focusing on physical, institutional, and people-to-people linkages. It aims to create a seamless and integrated ASEAN, where goods, services, capital, and people can move freely. India's connectivity initiatives in the region, such as infrastructure projects and digital connectivity programs, align with the goals of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025.

The ASEAN ICT Master Plan (AIMS 2020) is a roadmap for ICT development in ASEAN, aiming to create a digitally-enabled economy. It focuses on promoting digital innovation, enhancing cybersecurity, and bridging the digital divide. India's digital economy initiatives, such as Digital India, complement the goals of AIMS 2020 and provide opportunities for collaboration in areas such as e-commerce, digital payments, and cybersecurity. Enhancing digital connectivity is particularly important in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where digital technologies are transforming economies and societies.

RCEP: A Missed Opportunity?

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was a proposed free trade agreement between the ASEAN member states and six states with which ASEAN has existing free trade agreements (Australia, People's Republic of China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, and New Zealand). It was intended to create one of the world's largest trading blocs, covering a significant portion of the global population and economy.

However, India ultimately withdrew from the RCEP negotiations in 2019, citing concerns about its potential impact on domestic industries, particularly agriculture and manufacturing. India feared that the RCEP would lead to a surge in imports from China and other countries, harming local producers and exacerbating trade deficits.

While India's withdrawal from RCEP was a setback, it does not diminish the importance of its economic engagement with ASEAN. India continues to pursue bilateral and regional trade agreements with ASEAN countries and remains committed to strengthening economic ties with the region. The decision to withdraw from RCEP reflected a cautious approach, prioritizing the protection of domestic interests and ensuring that trade agreements are mutually beneficial.

The Dharma-Dhamma Conference: A Cultural Bridge

The 4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference in Rajgir, Bihar, was another significant event that marked the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations. The conference, focusing on “State and Social Order in Dharma-Dhamma Traditions,” highlighted the shared cultural heritage between India and Southeast Asia. Buddhism, which originated in India, has had a profound influence on the culture and civilization of many Southeast Asian countries.

The Dharma-Dhamma Conference provided a platform for scholars, religious leaders, and policymakers to discuss the relevance of Buddhist principles in contemporary society. It also served as a reminder of the deep historical and cultural connections between India and Southeast Asia, which extend far beyond economic and political ties. Such cultural exchanges help to foster mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people connections, which are essential for a sustainable and long-lasting partnership.

Key Actors: Driving the Partnership

The ASEAN-India partnership is driven by a variety of actors, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and academic institutions. The governments of India and the ASEAN member states play a crucial role in setting the policy agenda, negotiating agreements, and implementing initiatives.

The ASEAN Secretariat, based in Jakarta, Indonesia, coordinates and supports ASEAN activities and initiatives. It provides administrative and technical support to ASEAN bodies and facilitates communication and cooperation among member states. The ASEAN Secretariat plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the ASEAN-India partnership.

Nalanda University, an international university located in Rajgir, Bihar, played a key role in organizing the International Dharma-Dhamma Conference. The university, which has a long history of promoting Buddhist studies and interfaith dialogue, provides a platform for academic research and exchange on issues related to Dharma and Dhamma traditions.

The India Foundation, a think tank based in New Delhi, co-organized the International Dharma-Dhamma Conference. The foundation conducts research and policy analysis on issues related to Indian foreign policy and national security. It plays a role in promoting dialogue and understanding between India and other countries.

The Ministry of External Affairs, the government agency responsible for India's foreign policy, supports the ASEAN-India partnership through various initiatives, including diplomatic engagements, development assistance, and cultural exchanges. The Ministry of External Affairs plays a central role in shaping and implementing India's Act East policy.

Organizations Involved: Facilitating Cooperation

Several organizations play a crucial role in facilitating cooperation between India and ASEAN. The ASEAN Secretariat, as mentioned earlier, coordinates and supports ASEAN activities and initiatives. It provides administrative and technical support to ASEAN bodies and facilitates communication and cooperation among member states.

Nalanda University, through its academic and research activities, contributes to a deeper understanding of the shared cultural heritage between India and Southeast Asia. The university's focus on Buddhist studies and interfaith dialogue promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

The India Foundation, through its research and policy analysis, provides insights and recommendations on issues related to Indian foreign policy and national security. The foundation's work helps to inform policy decisions and promote dialogue and understanding between India and other countries.

The Ministry of External Affairs, as the government agency responsible for India's foreign policy, plays a central role in shaping and implementing the ASEAN-India partnership. The ministry's diplomatic engagements, development assistance, and cultural exchanges contribute to strengthening ties between India and ASEAN.

Legal Frameworks: Foundations for Cooperation

While there is no single overarching legal framework governing the ASEAN-India partnership, various agreements and treaties provide a foundation for cooperation in specific areas. The Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) in goods and services, as well as the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreements (CECAs) with individual ASEAN countries, provide a legal basis for trade and investment flows between India and ASEAN.

Other agreements and treaties cover areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and disaster management. These agreements provide a framework for cooperation in addressing common security challenges. The absence of a single overarching legal framework reflects the diverse nature of the ASEAN-India partnership, which encompasses a wide range of areas of cooperation.

Processes and Procedures: Ensuring Smooth Functioning

The ASEAN-India partnership operates through a variety of processes and procedures, designed to ensure its smooth functioning. Regular summits and ministerial meetings provide opportunities for high-level dialogue and decision-making. Senior officials meetings and working groups facilitate communication and cooperation at the technical level.

The ASEAN-India Fund provides financial support for projects and activities that promote cooperation between India and ASEAN. The fund is used to support initiatives in areas such as education, culture, and connectivity. The ASEAN-India Centre, located in New Delhi, serves as a hub for research and outreach activities related to the ASEAN-India partnership.

Historical Precedents: Learning from the Past

India's Look East policy, initiated in the early 1990s, provides a historical precedent for the Act East policy. The Look East policy, which focused primarily on economic cooperation with Southeast Asia, laid the foundation for closer ties between India and ASEAN. The success of the Look East policy demonstrated the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between India and Southeast Asia.

The Act East policy builds upon the foundations laid by the Look East policy, expanding its scope and ambition. The Act East policy encompasses not only economic cooperation but also strategic, security, and cultural dimensions. The evolution from Look East to Act East reflects a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the region and the growing importance of Southeast Asia in India's overall foreign policy calculus.

Stakeholder Positions: Diverse Interests, Shared Goals

India and ASEAN share a common interest in promoting regional stability and prosperity. However, their underlying interests and priorities may differ. India seeks to expand its economic influence, enhance its strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific, and counter China's growing influence. ASEAN seeks to maintain its centrality in regional affairs, promote economic integration and development, and attract foreign investment.

These diverse interests and priorities can sometimes lead to tensions and disagreements. However, the shared goal of promoting regional stability and prosperity provides a basis for cooperation and compromise. Both India and ASEAN recognize the importance of maintaining a strong and mutually beneficial partnership.

Broader Implications: A Multifaceted Impact

The ASEAN-India partnership has broad implications for political, diplomatic, security, economic, social, and technological cooperation. Politically, the partnership strengthens India's political influence in Southeast Asia and enhances its role as a regional power. Diplomatically, it deepens diplomatic ties between India and ASEAN countries, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

In terms of security, the partnership promotes regional security cooperation, including maritime security and counter-terrorism efforts. Economically, it boosts trade and investment flows between India and ASEAN, creating economic opportunities and promoting growth. Socially, the partnership promotes cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections between India and ASEAN countries.

Technologically, the partnership encourages collaboration in digital technologies and innovation. The ASEAN-India partnership has a multifaceted impact, contributing to regional stability, economic development, and cultural exchange.

Connections and Context: A Web of Interrelationships

The ASEAN-India partnership is connected to a variety of ongoing issues, historical connections, and future outlooks. India-China relations and competition for influence in Southeast Asia are an ongoing issue that affects the ASEAN-India partnership. The evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific region also shapes the dynamics of the partnership.

Regional security challenges, such as maritime disputes and terrorism, require cooperation between India and ASEAN. Ancient cultural and trade links between India and Southeast Asia provide a historical connection that underpins the partnership. India's support for ASEAN's formation and development is another historical connection that has shaped the relationship.

The Non-Aligned Movement and its principles of peaceful coexistence and cooperation provide a philosophical foundation for the ASEAN-India partnership. The future outlook for the partnership is one of continued deepening of relations, with a focus on economic integration, strategic cooperation, and cultural exchange. Potential challenges include navigating geopolitical tensions and addressing economic disparities.