Post by : Rohit Dhiman

India has called for closer cooperation with Southeast Asian countries to promote peace, security and stability across the Indo-Pacific region. The focus is on strengthening regional partnerships, improving coordination and identifying practical ways for India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address shared security challenges. On October 14, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered an address at the ASEAN–India Defence Think Tank Forum in New Delhi. He highlighted the importance of deeper engagement between India and ASEAN countries at a time when maritime safety, emerging technologies and regional security remain important areas of cooperation. The address placed India ASEAN defence cooperation at the centre of discussions on building stronger regional capabilities. The forum brought attention to areas where dialogue between defence experts, researchers and policymakers could help identify opportunities for joint initiatives.

New Delhi Forum Focuses on Regional Security Priorities

The ASEAN–India Defence Think Tank Forum is intended to encourage discussions that can lead to practical cooperation between India and Southeast Asian partners. Rather than limiting engagement to broad policy conversations, the forum seeks to identify initiatives that can strengthen capabilities, improve information exchange and support a more coordinated regional response to common challenges. The gathering also provides a platform for examining how defence institutions and research organisations can contribute to closer strategic engagement. Through the ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum, participants can explore shared priorities and consider how research, policy discussions and professional exchanges may support long-term cooperation.

Maritime Security and Cybersecurity Among Key Areas

One of the important areas highlighted by Rajnath Singh was maritime security. Safe and secure maritime routes are significant for regional trade, connectivity and economic activity. Cooperation in this field can involve information sharing, coordination and efforts to strengthen the ability of countries to respond to maritime challenges. Cybersecurity was another area identified for collaboration. As digital systems become increasingly important to public services, economic activity and defence operations, stronger communication and cooperation can help countries improve their ability to address cyber-related risks. Defence technology and joint research also featured among the opportunities for closer engagement. Greater collaboration in these areas could help India and ASEAN partners exchange expertise, examine emerging requirements and explore practical approaches to developing regional capabilities.

Disaster Response and Joint Research Could Strengthen Preparedness

Disaster response was another key area of potential cooperation. Natural disasters and other emergencies can require rapid coordination, reliable communication and the exchange of relevant information across borders. Closer engagement between India and ASEAN countries could support discussions on preparedness, response planning and the use of available capabilities during emergencies. Joint research can also help defence institutions and policy experts examine regional challenges and identify possible solutions. The emphasis on defence technology and research reflects the wider scope of cooperation being considered, extending beyond conventional security discussions. However, the specific projects, timelines and implementation arrangements were not detailed in the information provided about the address.

Why Indo-Pacific Security Matters to India and ASEAN

The Indo-Pacific security landscape brings together countries with shared interests in regional peace, maritime connectivity and economic stability. Cooperation between India and ASEAN is therefore relevant to discussions on how regional partners can communicate more effectively and respond to common concerns. For India, stronger engagement with Southeast Asian countries provides an opportunity to deepen defence dialogue and expand practical cooperation. For ASEAN members, continued engagement with India offers another platform for exchanging perspectives and exploring initiatives that support regional preparedness. The call for closer cooperation also underlines the importance of dialogue among regional partners. Better information sharing, research collaboration and coordination in areas such as maritime safety and disaster response can contribute to stronger collective capabilities.

Focus on Practical Initiatives and Long-Term Regional Stability

The central objective highlighted at the New Delhi forum was to move discussions towards meaningful areas of cooperation. Identifying shared priorities, improving the exchange of information and exploring joint initiatives can help India and ASEAN partners strengthen their engagement over time. The forum's emphasis on regional stability reflects a common interest in maintaining peace and improving the capacity of regional countries to address security challenges.

0