The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh arrived in Brunei's capital, Bandar Seri Begawan on Wednesday afternoon to attend the 11th India-ASEAN and 8th East Asia Summit. During his stay, he will have a bilateral meeting with the Australian Prime Minister on the side lines of the summit.
The issue of uranium sale to India is likely to figure prominently during the talks. AIR special correspondent S. Mathias covering the Prime Minister's visit reports that ASEAN and East Asia Summits hold special significance in India's Look East policy.
ASEAN India trade today is 76 billion dollars and is targeted to increase to 100 billion by 1015 and 200 billion by 2022. AIR correspondent quoting highly placed sources reports that Free Trade Agreement is between ASEAN and India is expected to be implemented by July 2014.
India has been discussing various issues including maritime security in the region with these countries. India will also set up a full-fledged embassy soon to further boost Indo-ASEAN cooperation.
India’s initiative in establishing Nalanda University in Bihar has also received wide support in the region. The East Asia Summit forum has also reinforced the international character of the proposed university which is slated to begin academic programmes next year.
China and Australia have pledged one million dollars each for the project. Singapore and other countries also have contributed.
The ASEAN summit, which began on Wednesday, was inaugurated by Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah. He asserted that the outlook of the region remains promising and urged the member countries to work together to promote the business environment in the region.
Dr. Manmohan Singh before leaving Indonesia on Thursday evening will participate in the India-ASEAN and East Asia summits .
New Delhi says the focus of Prime Minister's visit to Indonesia is to strengthen the bilateral strategic partnership.
The Indian Ambassador to Indonesia Gurjit Singh told AIR correspondent that special focus of the visit will be economic and Human Resource Development.
