Modi Skips ASEAN Summit: Strategy Over Symbolism

Paromita Das

New Delhi, 24th October: In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opted to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit virtually, citing Bharat’s ongoing Deepavali celebrations. This marks only the second time in a decade Modi has skipped the summit in person, ending hopes of a face-to-face meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, who will attend the event in Malaysia. Bharat’s external affairs will be led at the summit by Minister S. Jaishankar, reflecting a focus on domestic culture alongside strategic global priorities.

No Modi-Trump Meeting: A Pause, Not a Rift

Despite Trump’s attendance, no bilateral meeting with Modi is scheduled this year. Rather than a diplomatic setback, this highlights Bharat’s careful calibration of its international engagements. Modi’s attention pivots to key global platforms such as the G20 Summit in South Africa and the upcoming QUAD summit, emphasizing meaningful engagement on Bharat’s terms.

ASEAN Partnership: Bharat’s Act East Policy in Motion

Bharat’s commitment to ASEAN remains strong despite Modi’s virtual attendance. Since formalizing a strategic partnership in 2012, ASEAN’s role is central to Bharat’s Act East Policy. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar will represent Bharat, reaffirming priorities like regional stability, supply chain resilience, and digital connectivity within the Indo-Pacific framework.

Balancing Culture and Diplomacy: Deepavali Takes Precedence

Modi’s decision underscores the importance of Bharatiya cultural traditions. Prioritizing Deepavali celebrations demonstrates a leadership style rooted in national identity without compromising international diplomacy, as Bharat remains actively engaged via virtual channels.

Navigating Trade Tensions While Prioritizing National Pride

Bharat’s trade relations with the U.S. have been strained, with tariffs and inconsistent policies straining ties. Modi’s firm protection of agricultural interests reflects a broader insistence on strategic autonomy, signaling that Bharat will engage globally but without compromising domestic priorities.

Bharat’s Global Stance: Substance Over Optics

Modi’s absence signals a mature diplomacy focused on depth rather than display. By engaging on its own terms and emphasizing substantive goals, Bharat signals its growing confidence as a strategic global player prioritizing regional harmony and sovereignty.

Bharat Leads Through Strategic Depth

Modi’s virtual participation at ASEAN, coupled with a focus on other multilateral forums, conveys a confident, culturally grounded, and strategically autonomous Bharat. The nation’s message is clear: effective leadership combines tradition with global responsibility, emphasizing meaningful action over symbolic presence.