ASEAN-India: Forging Physical Connectivity

Abstract

“Connectivity is the pathway to shared prosperity.” These words were stated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 13th ASEAN-India Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2015. As ASEAN strives to achieve its goal of establishing a single market and become a fully integrated ASEAN Community, it is clear that connectivity is a crucial factor as demonstrated by the adoption of the revised Master Plan on Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, which seeks to comprehensively connect ASEAN Member states, along with its regional and sub-regional partners, through its physical, institutional and people-to-people linkages. While MPAC is centered on developing connectivity among ASEAN member states, it also gives due importance to connectivity with ASEAN’s dialogue and strategic partners, particularly China, India, Japan, and Korea.