Rajnath Singh reaffirms ASEAN centrality as cornerstone of India’s Act East policy and Indo-Pacific vision

Cebu [Philippines]: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to ASEAN centrality while addressing the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines. He described ASEAN centrality as a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision, stressing the importance of mutual trust, regional security and stronger defence cooperation among participating countries.

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Singh expressed hope that the forum will help participating nations address emerging disruptions, strengthen mutual confidence and advance practical defence cooperation. He also thanked the Philippines for hosting the meeting and facilitating discussions on shared regional security concerns.

India’s position reflected its support for an inclusive, stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific in which ASEAN-led mechanisms played a central role. New Delhi views engagement with Southeast Asian nations as an important part of its broader strategic outreach and regional diplomacy.

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The ADMM-Plus bought together the 11 ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners—India, the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. The forum provided a platform for defence ministers to discuss shared security challenges and strengthen cooperation across the region.

India’s participation also built on its ongoing defence engagement with ASEAN countries, including cooperation on counter-terrorism, maritime security and regional stability. India is co-chairing the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism with Malaysia for the 2024–2027 cycle, reinforcing its role in practical regional security cooperation.

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