A direct flight from India to Indonesia will soon be a reality.

Minister for Tourism in Indonesia Mari Elka Pangestu informed this on the sidelines of ASEAN Summit that was inaugurated in the beautiful island of Bali in Indonesia today.

Speaking to AIR Correspondent, she said both Indonesia and India have prolonged cultural and traditional ties since ages and they are keen on furthering this long lasting friendship between the two countries.

ASEAN leaders resolved today to have a strong regional association that could take an active role towards the establishment of an ASEAN Community by 2015.

The Summit Chair and President of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono stressed on the need for regional integration.

The leaders from 10 member-countries including Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Philippines and others in the South East Asian region are taking part in the Summit.

During the course of the summit today ASEAN leaders are likely to dwell upon issues connected with women empowerment, child protection, and greater connectivity between them and arriving at common Visa regime.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will arrive this evening.

Dr. Singh is scheduled to hold multilateral dialogues with ASEAN leaders and leaders from other dialogue partner countries tomorrow.