Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. urged member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and India to strengthen maritime cooperation and uphold the rule of law in the seas, emphasizing that stability in the Indo-Pacific depends on peaceful and lawful conduct in regional waters.
Speaking at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit on Sunday, Mr. Marcos said ASEAN and India share a deep maritime heritage and common interests that make collaboration crucial in safeguarding regional security and prosperity.
“As a maritime and archipelagic nation, I wish to highlight the great importance of the rule of law in our oceans,” President Marcos said.
“Both ASEAN and India should view the peaceful settlement of disputes and maritime cooperation as essential, as our seas are vital to the peace and prosperity of the entire Indo-Pacific region,” he added.
Mr. Marcos thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s “consistent support for international law and the rule of law in our seas,” noting that such commitment complements ASEAN’s long-standing efforts to maintain regional stability through dialogue and cooperation.
The Philippine leader recalled his visit to India last August at the invitation of Modi, saying he witnessed firsthand how both regions can work closely to address common issues.
“As nations of the Global South, we share common challenges, and deeper cooperation among us is essential,” President Marcos said.
He noted India’s rising global influence as it is poised to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, emphasizing that its proximity and commitment to ASEAN, through the “Act East” policy, present vast opportunities for regional collaboration.
“As a committed dialogue partner that recognizes ASEAN centrality, India’s engagement under its Act East policy underscores our shared vision of stability and prosperity in the region,” Mr. Marcos stated.
For his part, Modi declared 2026 as India’s “Year of Maritime Cooperation,” citing his nation’s close collaboration with the regional bloc in areas such as maritime security, disaster relief, and the blue economy.
