India Presents 'Operation Sindoor' at East Asia Summit in Malaysia
In a significant diplomatic engagement, India briefed senior ASEAN officials about Operation Sindoor during the East Asia Summit Senior Officials’ Meeting (EAS SOM), held recently in Penang, Malaysia. This briefing was led by P. Kumaran, Joint Secretary in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, underscoring India's proactive regional role.
Strengthening Ties at Back-to-Back Regional Forums
The briefing took place amid India’s participation in two consecutive high-level forums: the East Asia Summit Senior Officials’ Meeting on June 10 and the ASEAN Regional Forum Senior Officials’ Meeting (ARF SOM) on June 11. Both gatherings were chaired by Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, Secretary General of Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attracting senior delegates from member countries across Asia.
Emphasizing Indo-Pacific Stability and Cooperation
During the EAS SOM, Kumaran emphasized the summit’s pivotal role in fostering peace, security, and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted the synergy between India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI) and ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), showcasing shared goals for a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based regional order.
Alongside supporting the proposed outcome documents for the 20th East Asia Summit, Kumaran engaged in extensive discussions covering both regional and global challenges, inviting ASEAN members to participate in upcoming Indian-hosted events:
- EAS Knowledge Exchange Workshop on Energy Efficiency under the Mission LiFE program
- Conclave of EAS Heads of Higher Education Institutions at Nalanda University
Addressing Security Concerns at ASEAN Regional Forum
At the ASEAN Regional Forum Senior Officials’ Meeting, key topics centered on enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism, maritime security, and cybersecurity. Kumaran explicitly voiced India’s concerns over state-sponsored terrorism, referencing the recent terror attack that occurred on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
He characterized India’s military response, Operation Sindoor, as measured, proportionate, non-escalatory, and responsible, highlighting India’s commitment to stability while safeguarding its sovereignty.
Fostering Bilateral Relations Amid Geopolitical Developments
In addition to multilateral discussions, Kumaran conducted bilateral meetings with senior officials from countries including Australia, Brunei, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Singapore. These talks aimed at deepening cooperation and understanding across various sectors.
The backdrop to these engagements includes reports that Pakistan is aiming to secure full dialogue partner status within ASEAN through Malaysia, adding a layer of geopolitical complexity to India’s regional outreach efforts.
What’s Next in India-ASEAN Relations?
India’s active participation and transparent communication about Operation Sindoor at such high-profile forums reflect its strategic intent to reinforce regional peace and stability. By aligning initiatives like IPOI with ASEAN’s frameworks and inviting collaboration in energy and education, India continues to build robust partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
