About ASEAN
ASEAN, short for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is a regional intergovernmental organization composed of ten member states in Southeast Asia. It was established on August 8, 1967, with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (also known as the Bangkok Declaration) by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Since then, five additional countries have joined ASEAN: Brunei Darussalam (1984), Vietnam (1995), Laos (1997), Myanmar (formerly Burma, 1997), and Cambodia (1999).
The primary purpose of ASEAN is to promote regional cooperation and integration among its member states. It aims to accelerate economic growth, social progress, and cultural development in the region, while also ensuring peace and stability. ASEAN operates on the principles of consensus, non-interference in member states' internal affairs, and respect for national sovereignty.
Indo-ASEAN Relations
The India-ASEAN relations aim to facilitate economic, cultural, and social development and maintain peace and security among the nations.
India and ASEAN have a common interest in maintaining peace and stability in the region. They have signed a Joint Declaration on Defence Cooperation, which can guide the future strategic partnership. India has been a useful partner to ASEAN in this field.
India is among the biggest and most important trading partners of ASEAN members. These countries also have a very large Indian population. India’s trade with ASEAN has grown at an annual average of 20% over the last decade..