The 5th ASEAN-India Youth Summit in Goa, India, has brought together over 100 young leaders from diverse fields, including politics, technology, academia, media, and think tanks. The event, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the India Foundation and ASEAN Foundation, aims to foster cooperation among youth in shaping a brighter future for the region. "Connecting the Youth: Shaping our Future" is the theme of this year's summit, which coincides with the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism in 2025.
As the world grapples with increasing regional tensions and global uncertainties, the role of young leaders in promoting diplomacy and cooperation cannot be overstated. The summit provides a platform for these young leaders to engage in discussions, share ideas, and build relationships that can potentially mitigate tensions between nations. According to a report by the Asian Development Bank, youth-led initiatives have shown significant potential in promoting regional integration and cooperation.
Historical Background
The ASEAN-India relationship has been marked by growing economic ties, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. The 2002 India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the 2015 Strategic Partnership Agreement have strengthened bilateral relations. However, regional tensions, particularly between China and its neighbors, have also posed significant challenges.
Key Stakeholders
India, being a key player in regional diplomacy, has been actively engaged in promoting ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which envisions a united and prosperous Southeast Asia. The Indian government has also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing common challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and cyber security.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has also taken steps to strengthen its ties with India, including the establishment of the ASEAN-India Centre in New Delhi. The centre serves as a hub for promoting people-to-people exchanges, cultural cooperation, and economic engagement between the two regions.
Recent Developments
The 5th ASEAN-India Youth Summit comes at a time when regional tensions are escalating. China's growing military presence in the South China Sea has raised concerns among Southeast Asian nations, while India's growing economic influence in the region has also been met with skepticism by some.
In recent months, there have been several incidents that highlight the need for greater regional cooperation. The ongoing border dispute between India and China, as well as the tensions surrounding the South China Sea, have shown the importance of effective diplomacy and dialogue.
Expert Insights
According to Dr. Purna Sen, a senior fellow at the Centre for Policy Research in New Delhi, "The ASEAN-India Youth Summit is an excellent initiative that recognizes the potential of young leaders in promoting regional cooperation and peace."
Dr. Ramesh Aditya, a research director at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, added, "The summit provides a platform for young leaders to engage with each other and build relationships that can potentially lead to greater regional cooperation."
Outcomes and Future Impact
In the short term, the 5th ASEAN-India Youth Summit is likely to strengthen ties between India and ASEAN, promote people-to-people exchanges, and foster greater cooperation on regional issues. The summit also provides a platform for young leaders to engage with each other and build relationships that can potentially lead to greater regional cooperation.
In the long term, the success of the summit will depend on its ability to translate into tangible outcomes, such as increased economic engagement, cultural cooperation, and diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.