Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to attend the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia next week. This decision comes as a result of scheduling conflicts and other pressing domestic commitments, according to sources familiar with the matter. While India has not yet officially announced its participation level, it is understood that the Prime Minister will not be traveling to Kuala Lumpur for the event.
The ASEAN Summit and its associated meetings are scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur from October 26-28. This gathering was anticipated to be a potential venue for a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and US President Donald Trump, especially amid ongoing trade-related tensions between the two nations.
However, the Prime Minister is expected to join the India-ASEAN Summit virtually on October 26. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is slated to attend the East Asia Summit, scheduled for October 27-28.
Sources indicate that the government’s current focus is heavily on the upcoming state assembly elections in Bihar. Additionally, the Prime Minister is expected to be present for celebrations marking the Chhath Puja festival next week. These domestic priorities appear to have taken precedence over the international summit.
Discussions regarding a bilateral trade agreement between India and the US have been ongoing, involving interactions between Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and US officials, as well as a recent phone call between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi. Despite these contacts, there have been few signs of an immediate breakthrough in the trade negotiations. The lack of a concrete outcome prior to a potential leader-level meeting is believed to be a factor influencing the Prime Minister’s travel plans.
While the Indian side had made extensive preparations for a potential visit, including logistical arrangements, Malaysian officials had initially announced Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled arrival on October 26. US President Trump is also expected to be in Malaysia around the same time, before proceeding to Japan.
Commerce Secretary Agrawal’s recent visit to the US concluded with constructive discussions, laying the groundwork for future trade talks. India remains committed to a mutually beneficial trade agreement that also safeguards the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and MSMEs.
Earlier trade talks were impacted by US tariffs on Indian goods. While discussions have resumed, the specifics of the negotiations, including tariffs and market access, remain a complex area.
President Trump recently mentioned discussing trade with Prime Minister Modi during their phone call, while Prime Minister Modi’s social media post highlighted shared commitment against terrorism, without specific mention of trade issues.