ASEAN-INDIA Initiatives 2017-18

Ministry of External Affairs
Government of India
Ministry of Commerce and Industry
YEARS O5 F2 PG AN RI TT NA ER RB SE HL IE PC
asean india
PROGRESS & PROSPERITY Confederation of Indian Industry
ASEAN-INDIA
Initiatives 2017-18
A Retrospect
COMMEMORATING
25 YEARS OF
ASEAN-INDIA
DIALOGUE
PARTNERSHIP

Contents
1. ASEAN INDIA BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT MEET & EXPO 05
2. ASEAN INDIA STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME 25
3. ASEAN INDIA CONNECTIVITY SUMMIT 27
4. 14TH CII GLOBAL MSME BUSINESS SUMMIT 2017 44
5. CONFERENCE ON ASEAN-INDIA COOPERATION 48
6. MEDIA COVERAGE 55

ASEAN India Business and
Investment Meet & Expo
India and ASEAN are together home to 1.8 billion people, have a combined economy of US$ 3.8
trillion and a substantial share of world resources. With shared land and maritime boundaries,
ASEAN-India relations are firmly embedded in Culture, Commerce and Connectivity. India's
“Look East Policy” (LEP) was in force for more than two decades, and thereafter, it has been
transformed into “Act East Policy” (AEP) with ASEAN at its core. Starting as a sectoral partner of
ASEAN in 1992, India became a dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1996, a summit-level partner in 2002
and a strategic partner in 2012.
Strengthening India's economic relations with the countries in the East is one of the main
objectives of India's 'Act East Policy' of the Government of India. Over 50% of India's foreign trade
now goes to the East. In addition, India's bilateral trade with ASEAN is around US$72 billion in 2016-
17. The two sides are now aiming to scale up bilateral trade to US$200 billion by 2022. India also
has extensive and expanding trade relations with APEC economies, which account for 35% of
India's merchandise trade.
The year 2017 marks 25 years of ASEAN-India dialogue partnership, 15 years of summit level
interaction and 5 years of strategic partnership.
Celebrating 25 years of partnership, India and ASEAN are working towards a mutually beneficial
engagement aimed at boosting prosperity for both. The Sectors of Collaboration on various levels,
be it business and/or academic, need consistent attention for specific targets to be achieved. To
showcase the best in ASEAN and India and create a visible array of projects across the areas of
collaboration the ASEAN–India Business and Investment Meet and Expo was Organised by
Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry in association with Ministry of
External Affairs and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
A galaxy of ASEAN Trade Ministers with business leaders from ASEAN countries along with over 500
delegates, deliberated on trade and potential areas of cooperation.
In addition to the Conference, the meet also included an exclusive Exhibition of States of
India and ASEAN Country Pavilions with 70 plus exhibitors, including a virtual showcase of
India@2022. The meet provided a platform for buyer-seller meets, business networking and
technology assessments.
An overview of Business and
Investment Meet & Expo
22-23 January 2018, The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi
05

(L-R) Ms Rita Teaotia, Secretary - Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt. of India; H E Mr Cao Quoc Hung, Vice Minister
of Industry and Trade, Socialist Republic of Vietnam; H E Ms Nora Kakilala Terrado, Under Secretary (Deputy Minister) Trade and
Investment Promotion Group (TIPG), Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines; H E Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General, ASEAN;
H E Mr Enggartiasto Lukita, Minister of Trade, Republic of Indonesia; Hon'ble Mr Suresh Prabhu, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Govt.
of India; H E Mr Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister's office and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Brunei Darussalam,
H E U Khin Maung Cho, Union Minister of Industry, Republic of the Union of Myanmar; H E Mr Chhuon Dara, Secretary of State, Ministry of
Commerce, Kingdom of Cambodia; H E Ms Chutima Bunyapraphasara, Deputy Minister of Commerce, Kingdom of Thailand;
Hon'ble Gen. (Dr.) (Retd.) V K Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India; Mr Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President
Designate, CII and Vice-Chairman, Bharti Enterprises at the Inaugural Session of the ASEAN-India Business and Investment Meet and Expo
Inaugural Session: “Promoting Mutual Trade
& Investment for Shared Prosperity”
Government of India
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Speaking at the inaugural session, Mr Suresh Prabhu, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry,
Government of India, stated, “We have a comprehensive and engaged relationship with ASEAN,
India and ASEAN possess complementary economies and there is tremendous scope to expand
cooperation”. In this context, he highlighted the relevance of the review of the ASEAN–India Trade
and Goods Agreement. He also highlighted the importance of Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) that is being negotiated and stated that this agreement would enable India to
integrate more closely with the region.
Trade Ministers from ASEAN countries emphasized the potential that partnership and
cooperation offers.
HE Mr Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Brunei Darussalam pointed out the three main areas for greater collaboration between India
and Brunei-Technology, MSMEs, and a faster conclusion to the RCEP – which would benefit
the region overall.
HE Mr Enggartiasto Lukita, Minister of Trade, Indonesia highlighted the need to leverage the
ASEAN-India FTA better. He felt that the trade between the two regions are complementary and
promotion of further trade will also galvanize job creation.
06

HE Mr U Khin Maung Cho, Union Minister of Industry, Myanmar, highlighted the need to promote
the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises in Myanmar, which are a backbone of the economy
and play a major role in job creation. He also stated that his country is emerging from various
difficulties and is just opening itself to the world.
Speaking in the same vein of the need to stimulate growth and jobs which would require greater
investment in infrastructure through Public Private Partnerships, H E Mr Chhuon Dara, Secretary
of State, Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia stated that India and ASEAN must promote a better
understanding of the business conditions in each other’s regions.
Acknowledging India as a trusted partner for the Philippines, HE Ms Nora Kakilala Terrado, Under
Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines, stated that India and Philippines have
common opportunities for cooperation in diverse sectors, especially the service oriented sectors.
HE Ms Chutima Bunyapraphasara, The Deputy Minister of Commerce, Thailand, was of the view
that people to people relations form a strong foundation for ASEAN-India trade and economic
cooperation. She observed that the axis of globalization has shifted to the Indo-Pacific region and
ASEAN-India partnership is a pivotal part of it. She invited Indian industry to invest in the
Eastern Economic Corridor, which she said is the world's largest Special Economic Zone.
HE Mr Cao Quoc Hung, Vice Minister of Industry and Trade, Vietnam stated that the RCEP
agreement will ensure greater convergence in economic policy between the two regions.
Gen. Dr. (Retd.) V K Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, stressed on
the need for integration and the opportunity offered and stated that greater connectivity with
ASEAN will help increase its connectivity with India’s own North-East Region and greater
economic integration with the neighbourhood will lead to shared prosperity.
Ms Rita Teaotia, Commerce Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India
stated that it was in the interest of both the ASEAN region as well as India to promote cross border
trade and investment as well as participation in Regional Value Chains. She also highlighted the
need to improve connectivity through the development of the 1360 km India-Myanmar-Thailand
land route as well as the Trilateral Motor Vehicle Agreement.
Mr Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President Designate, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and
Vice Chairman, Bharti Enterprises stated that the ASEAN region has strong consumer markets and
offers a great opportunity to industry. Better sea and land routes through infrastructure
development will help improve collaboration in these as well as greater participation in Regional
Value Chains.
Services sector has immense contribution to the economic growth of India and most of the
ASEAN economies. There is immense potential in tourism, hospitality services, IT & ITeS,
education, collaboration in science & technology, financing services and health care between
India and countries in the region. Despite complementarities and the important role that
services play in fuelling overall economic growth, trade in services is far below the potential.
Government of India
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07

Inauguration of Exhibition with ASEAN Trade
Ministers and Cultural Evening & Dinner
hosted by Ministry of Commerce & Industry
(L-R): H E U Khin Maung Cho, Union Minister of Industry, Republic of the Union of Myanmar; H E Ms Nora Kakilala Terrado, Under Secretary
(Deputy Minister) Trade and Investment Promotion Group (TIPG), Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines; Hon'ble Mr Suresh Prabhu,
Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India; H E Mr Enggartiasto Lukita, Minister of Trade, Republic of Indonesia; H E Mr
Chhuon Dara, Secretary of State, Ministry of Commerce, Kingdom of Cambodia; H E Mr Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister's office
and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Brunei Darussalam; Hon'ble Gen. (Dr.) (Retd.) V K Singh, Minister of State for External
Affairs, Government of India; Ms Rita Teaotia, Secretary - Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India and
H E Ms Chutima Bunyapraphasara, Deputy Minister of Commerce, Kingdom of Thailand at the inauguration of Exhibition
The exhibition component of ASEAN-India Business and Investment Meet and Expo provided a
unique platform to business and trade leaders of ASEAN and India to showcase their products and
services. India and ASEAN pavilions were exhibited by the participating countries and B2B & B2G
meetings were also organised through this platform. The categories included CEOs, Diplomats,
Industry Leaders and Trade representatives.
The ASEAN countries participated in the Meet include- Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia,
Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam and Philippines.
At the cultural evening Hon’ble Minister of Commerce, Shri Suresh Prabhu graced the occasion
along with other dignitaries from ASEAN.
Government of India
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08

(L-R) Mr Subhash Goyal, Immediate Past President IATO & Chairman, STIC Travels Pvt. Ltd; Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon'ble Minister of State for
Commerce and Industry, Government of India; H E U Khin Maung Cho, Union Minister of Industry Republic of the Union of Myanmar;
Mr Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon'ble Minister of Electronics & Information Technology and Law & Justice, Government of India; Mr Rajan Navani,
Chairman, CII Council on Future Businesses and Managing Director, Jetline Group of Companies; Mr Jagdish Mitra, Chief Strategy and
Marketing officer - Head Growth Factories, Tech Mahindra Ltd and Mr Anup Wadhawan, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and
Industry, Government of India at the plenary session on Trade in Services: Deeper Engagement of India and ASEAN.
Plenary Session-1: “Trade in Services:
Deeper Engagement of India and ASEAN”
The session on “Trade in Services: Deeper Engagement of India and ASEAN” session sought
answers to questions such as Key issues to facilitate and deepen services trade between India and
ASEAN countries - expected gains for India's service-oriented economy, Promoting cross border
investment in services sector through new FDI models – liberalizing the service sector, Innovative
collaboration models that the government and private sector could adopt to promote trade in
services between India and ASEAN countries in Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism, IT/ITeS,
Education and Skills required to meet the targets of the services sector, Innovating the South-
South FTAs model to address sectoral trade-offs.
ASEAN and India have a deep historical connection. The momentum which we need to push it is
marked by 3 C's of Culture, Commerce, and Connectivity,” said Mr Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister
of Electronics and Information Technology and Law and Justice, Government of India. He
highlighted that Indian IT companies do not go abroad to replace jobs but create jobs and
capacity and use new technologies which empower people. “Indian people first learn
technology, then adopt it, then enjoy it and therefore get empowered,” he said, emphasizing
India's agenda in digital services promotion including in agriculture services.
Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon'ble Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Government of India; H E
U Khin Maung Cho, Union Minister of Industry, Republic of the Union of Myanmar; Mr Anup
Wadhawan, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government India; Mr
Subhash Goyal, Immediate Past President IATO and Chairman, STIC Travels Pvt. Ltd; Mr Jagdish
Mitra, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer and Head, Growth Factories, Tech Mahindra Ltd.; Mr
Rajan Navani, Chairman CII Council on Future Businesses and Managing Director, Jetline Group of
Companies conclusively agreed that massive opportunity exists between India and the ASEAN
region and ASEAN has been successful in creating integrated economies.
Government of India
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09

(L-R) Mr George T Barcelon, Member – ASEAN Business Advisory Council & Past President, Philippines Chamber of Commerce, Philippines;
Mr Binoy Kumar, Special Secretary, Logistics, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India; Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon’ble
Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Government of India; H E Mr Enggartiasto Lukita, Minister of Trade, Republic of Indonesia
and Mr Gaurav Bhatiani, COO, Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Limited at the plenary session on Regional Value Chains and
Connectivity: Linking for Collaborations
Government of India
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Plenary Session-2: “Regional Value Chains and
Connectivity: Linking for Collaborations”
During the session on “Regional Value Chains and Connectivity: Linking for Collaborations”
it was noted that India is not directly engaged with ASEAN through a regional value chain (RVC).
However, RCEP is likely to generate a stronger value chain between ASEAN and India. To
strengthen RVCs it is imperative that there is seamless connectivity within the region across all
modes – physical and digital connectivity which could be realized through a reasonably reduced
RVC threshold.
ASEAN-India Connectivity is a priority for India as also the ASEAN countries. While India has
made considerable progress in implementing the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway
and the Kaladan Multimodal Project, issues related to increasing the maritime and air
connectivity between ASEAN and India and transforming the corridors of connectivity into
economic corridors must be made high priority action areas. Some of the areas where the value
chain between ASEAN and India will get an immediate fillip are mining and quarrying, textile and
apparel, leather and footwear, basic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, metals, auto components, and
jewelry. Collaborations on connectivity projects will become key to ascertaining a stable position
in the Regional Value Chains. New models of co-creation and partnership need to be evolved to
ensure that there is sustainable trade and investment flows within the region.
This session saw participation of Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon'ble Minister of State for Commerce
and Industry, Government of India; Mr George T Barcelon, Member – ASEAN Business Advisory
Council & Past President, Philippines Chamber of Commerce, Philippines, H E Mr Enggartiasto
Lukita, Minister of Trade, Republic of Indonesia; Mr Binoy Kumar, Special Secretary, Logistics,
Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Mr Gaurav Bhatiani, COO, Infrastructure Leasing &
Financial Services Limited, throwing insights into the importance of international corridors which
impact the future state of the global economy and shed light on multilateral institutions'
perspectives and contributions toward connectivity projects.
10

Plenary Session-3: “Adding Value: Agriculture
and Blue Economy”
The session on “Adding Value: Agriculture and Blue Economy” noted that ASEAN and India are
part of the Indo-Pacific region and can take a lead in two very pertinent areas to ensure
sustainability through specific efforts. These include Agriculture and the Blue Economy. Along
with agriculture, sustainable exploitation of aquatic resources and co-operation potential for
exploiting ocean energy are among key areas for collective progress.
Thesessionsoughtanswerstoquestionssuchas:
• How can ASEAN and India build a common agenda and build suitable economic cooperation
mechanisms to facilitate sustainable development in adding value to agriculture and the
blue economy?
• Can ASEAN and India take a lead in the development in the Asia-Pacific and Indo-Pacific
region for value-added agriculture and blue economy?
• Can emerging maritime issues and trends driving geo-strategic transformation be the
common waters for establishing rules based maritime order
• How can increasing cooperation amongst littoral states to develop maritime infrastructure to
enhance their ability to exercise greater control over their Exclusive Economic Zones be the
key to unleashing the latent potential of the region?
Agriculture is another sector where there is tremendous potential for cooperation and adding
value to agriculture will positively impact the geo-strategic transformation underway. There is no
doubt that the engine of growth, globally is shifting from the west to East, said Ms Harsimrat Kaur
Badal, Hon’ble Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India adding that by 2020,
the demand for food is going to be 20% more. ASEAN countries must come together to dominate
the world food market, she said, stressing that food wastage must be minimised and that India
and ASEAN can play an important role in reducing wastage.
(L-R): Mr Devendra Kumar Singh, Chairman, APEDA; Mr Anil Khaitan, Chairman & Managing Director, Sunil Healthcare Limited;
Ms Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Hon'ble Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India; H E Mr Alounkeo Kittikhoum, Minister to
the Prime Minister's Office, Lao People's Democratic Republic; Mr Michael Williamson, Head of Office (Acting), Sub Regional Office for South
and South-West Asia, UNESCAP; Ms Shinta Widjaja Kamdani, Vice Chairman, International Relations of KADIN, Indonesia and Owner and
Chief Executive Officer, Sintesa Group and Mr Salil Singhal, Co-Chairman, CII Agriculture Council and Chairman & Managing Director
PI Industries Limited at the plenary session on Adding Value: Agriculture and Blue Economy.
Government of India
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Mr Devendra Kumar Singh, Chairman, APEDA; Mr Michael Williamson, Head of Office (Acting),
Sub Regional Office for South and South-West Asia, UNESCAP; Ms Shinta Widjaja Kamdani, Vice
Chairman, International Relations of KADIN, Indonesia and Owner and Chief Executive Officer,
Sintesa Group; Mr Anil Khaitan, Chairman & Managing Director, Sunil Healthcare Limited; H E Mr
Alounkeo Kittikhoum, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office, Lao People's Democratic Republic;
Mr Salil Singhal, Co-Chairman, CII Agriculture Council and Chairman & Managing Director
PI Industries Limited were key speakers at the session.
Plenary Session-4: “Trade & Investment:
For a Forward Pace”
While deepening trade and economic relations with the ASEAN region is an important component
of India’s Act East policy the session on “Trade & Investment: For a Forward Pace” noted that
India-ASEAN trade and investment relations have been growing steadily, with ASEAN being
India's fourth largest trading partner. The ASEAN-India FTA on Trade in Goods, signed in 2009, and
upgraded by including Services and Investment has an extremely deep strategic mandate.
However, the true potential has not been realized despite it being almost a decade since its
operationalization. While the FTA has helped leverage and deepen industrial and economic
capacities and opportunities for partnership, there has been limited success in terms of
enhancing the two-way bilateral trade and investment flow. Once the Regional Comprehensive
Economic Partnership (RCEP) comes into effect, it will further change the dynamics of India’s
engagement in the region.
(L-R) Mr Dammu Ravi, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India; H E Mr Chhuon
Dara, Secretary of State Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia; Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State for Commerce & Industry,
Government of India; H E Ms Nora Kakilala Terrado, Under Secretary (Deputy Minister), Trade and Investment Promotion Group (TIPG),
Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines; H E Mr Cao Quoc Hung, Vice Minister of Industry and Trade Socialist Republic of Vietnam;
Mr Vipin Sondhi, Chairman, CII Trade Fairs Council and Managing Director & CEO, JCB India Limited and Mr Sanjeev Chopra, Principal
Secretary – Industries State Government of Odisha at the plenary session on Trade & Investment: For a Forward Pace.
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13
The session aimed to understand how best to utilize the new political momentum given theASEAN
– India relations to further integrate the regional value chains that the two regions work along.
Highlighting the policy initiatives undertaken by Government of India like Make in India, Ease of
Doing business reforms, implementation of the Goods and Services tax pave the way for major
opportunities to invest in India. Easy Foreign Direct Investment norms in the key sectors,
simplified industrial licensing, forest clearances will further accelerate the growth in trade and
investments, said Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon'ble Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Government
of India in his special address.
Mr Dammu Ravi, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
Government of India; Mr Sanjeev Chopra, Principal Secretary – Industries State Government of
Odisha, H E Mr Chhuon Dara, Secretary of State Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia, H E Ms Nora
Kakilala Terrado, Under Secretary (Deputy Minister), Trade and Investment Promotion Group
(TIPG), Department of Trade and Industry Philippines; H E Mr Cao Quoc Hung, Vice Minister of
Industry and Trade Socialist Republic of Vietnam and Mr Vipin Sondhi, Chairman, CII Trade Fairs
Council and Managing Director& CEO, JCB India Limited were key speakers at the session.
According to Mr Arun Jaitley, Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Government of India, “One
of our greatest challenges today is that the world has increasingly started looking inwards. In such
protectionist times, India and the ASEAN nations represent an aspirational world which represents
about 2 billion people. The Finance Minister was speaking at the Valedictory Session of the ASEAN -
India Business Meet and Expo being organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of External Affairs today.
He pointed out that both India and ASEAN were fast growing regions in a world which
was slowing down. These two regions represented areas which were looking outward
for growth and not inward.
Valedictory Session: “ASEAN-India Relations:
Envisioning the next 25 Years”
(L-R) Mr Rajneesh, Joint Secretary – Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India; Mr Anup Wadhawan,
Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India; Mr C R Chaudhary, Hon'ble Minister of State for Commerce &
Industry, Government of India; HE Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General, ASEAN; Mr Arun Jaitley, Hon'ble Minister of Finance & Corporate
Affairs, Government of India; HE Mr Alounkeo Kittikhoun, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, Lao PDR; HE Mr Chhuon Dara, Secretary of
State, Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia; HE Mr Cao Quoc Hung, Vice Minister of Industry and Trade, Socialist Republic of Vietnam;
Gen. (Dr.) (Retd.) V K Singh, Hon'ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India and Mr Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President
Designate, Confederation of Indian Industry and Vice-Chairman, Bharti Enterprises at Valedictory Session of “ASEAN-India Relations:
Envisioning the next 25 Years” at the ASEAN-India Business and Investment Meet and Expo.
Government of India
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He stated that there is great opportunity for investment in India and prospects to further trade and
investment relations with the ASEAN region especially in sectors such as infrastructure,
manufacturing and services.
According to H E Alounkeo Kittikhoun, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Lao PDR India and
ASEAN needed to deepen and strengthen their cooperation in trade and investment, focus on
advancing B2B linkages through Jt. R&D projects, focus on strengthening cooperation in
vocational education and physical connectivity among others.
Mr C R Chaudhary, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Government of India stated that
some of the areas that India and ASEAN could focus on included trade in services, promotion of
investment and development of alternate sources of energy.
Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General, ASEAN stated that ASEAN was committed to concluding
the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations this year itself. He called
for greater Indian participation in the various forums set up under ASEAN.
According to Mr Anoop Wadhawan, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
trade and investment formed a criticial part of the overall relationship between India and
ASEAN. He stated that 10% of India’s trade was with the ASEAN region and 17% of its FDI was
accounted for by ASEAN countries.
Mr Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President - Designate, Confederation of Indian Industry stated that India
and ASEAN could focus on Developing Global Value Chains, energy and resources, ICT, and
tourism, media and entertainment.
B2B Meetings
Government of India
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Grand Total
270
Finland 04
Laos 04
Brunei 04
Thailand 05
Cambodia 06 Myanmar16
Vietnam23
Malaysia44
India
Philippines
100
48
16
Indonesia
14

A Brief Overview of the Exhibition
The exhibition was inaugurated on day one of the meet and saw a footfall of close to 750 delegates.
With a total of eight ASEAN countries participating in the exhibition like Indonesia, Thailand,
Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines and Brunei, a separate ASEAN-India Lounge
set up was used for VIP's seating, Business Meetings & Interactions. Theme Pavilions such as Startup
India Wall, Make in India Wall, New India Wall, Trade & Investment Wall and ASEAN-INDIA
Wall were set up.
Government of India
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The exhibition saw a total of thirty-two stall, which included three state stalls namely; Government
of Karnataka, Government of Odisha and Government of Manipur. Department of Industrial Policy
and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India also participated through its Invest
India stall. In terms of sectoral representation, sectors such as; infrastructure, engineering,
services, plastics, basic chemical, cosmetics & dyes, chemical & allied products, leather, textiles,
carpets and pharmaceuticals were present at the exhibition.
15

16
Atotaloftenexportpromotioncouncilsexhibitedattheexpo.Theynotonlyshowcasedthestrength
ofIndianexportsbutalsofocusedonthesectorspecificdevelopmentbetweenASEAN-India.
Including the councils, some companies which set up their stalls are as follows:
Amtrak Technologies Pvt Ltd
Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd
Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd
Bharat Mines and Minerals
CAPEXIL
CHEMEXCIL
ChemiKleen (India) Private Ltd
Council for Leather Exports
Fixderma India Pvt. Ltd.
Greenlam Industries Ltd
Gunjan Paints Ltd
IndogulfCropsciences Ltd
L&T Construction
Medanta - The Medicity
Narendra Emporis Limited
Gunjan Paints Limited
Shapoorji Pallonji And
Company Private Limited
Poly Medicure Ltd
Prabhu Textile Mills Pvt. Ltd.
Ravenbhel Healthcare Pvt. Ltd
RMG Polyvinyl
Travellite India
Sahiba Ltd.
Shahlon Silk Industries Pvt Ltd
SSP Pvt Ltd
Technofab Engineering Ltd
The Synthetic & Rayon Textiles
Export Promotion Council
Thermax Ltd
Government of India
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Government of India
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17
Action Points
Facts and Statistics
ASEAN
Trade
Ministers
Participation
3
ASEAN
Secretariat
Secretary
General
Meetings
Scheduled
270
Exhibition
Footfall
750 approx.
Overseas
Delegates
125
Indian
Delegates
450 approx.
ASEAN
Deputy Minister
Rank
Participation
5
9 ASEAN
countries
and Finland
Foreign
Participation in
B2B Meetings
B2G Meetings
(Orissa
Government)
7
Indian
Ministers
6
Introduction to the Business and Investment Meet
India and ASEAN are together home to 1.8 billion people, have a combined economy of US$ 3.8 trillion
and a substantial share of world resources. With shared land and maritime boundaries, ASEAN-India
relations are firmly embedded in Culture, Commerce and Connectivity. India’s “Look East Policy” (LEP)
was in force for more than two decades, and thereafter, it has been transformed into “Act East Policy”
(AEP) with ASEAN at its core. Starting as a sectoral partner of ASEAN in 1992, India became a dialogue
partner of ASEAN in 1996, a summit-level partner in 2002 and a strategic partner in 2012.
Strengthening India’s economic relations with the countries in the East is one of the main objectives of
India’s ‘Act East Policy’ of the Government of India. Over 50% of India’s foreign trade now goes to the East.
In addition, India’s bilateral trade with ASEAN is around US$72 billion in 2016-17. The two sides are now
aiming to scale up bilateral trade to US$200 billion by 2022. India also has extensive and expanding trade
relations with APEC economies, which account for 35% of India’s merchandise trade.
The year 2017 marks 25 years of ASEAN-India dialogue partnership, 15 years of summit level interaction
and 5 years of strategic partnership. Celebrating 25 years of partnership, India and ASEAN are working
towards a mutually beneficial engagement aimed at boosting prosperity for both. The Sectors of
Collaboration on various levels, be it business and/or academic, need consistent attention for specific
targets to be achieved. To showcase the best in ASEAN and India and create a visible array of projects
across the areas of collaboration the ASEAN – India Business and Investment Meet and Expo was

18
Government of India
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Inaugural Session
• Need to conclude the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement
• Need to enable greater mobility of manpower under Mode 4 of GATS.
• Need to speed up the implementation of the Kaladan Multi Modal Transit Transport Project, the
India Myanmar Trilateral Highway as well as the Trilateral Motor Vehicle Agreement to improve
connectivity.
• Industries in both regions to organise themselves to form Regional Value Chains.
• Promote the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises which are the backbone of all economies
and play a major role in job creation
• Stimulate greater investment in infrastructure through Public Private Partnerships to promote
growth in jobs.
• Key areas of collaboration are agriculture, energy, tourism, digital connectivity, and cross-
border investment.
organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in close association with Department of
Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Ministry of External Affairs on 22 and 23 January
2018 in New Delhi.
A galaxy of ASEAN Trade Ministers with business leaders from ASEAN countries along with over 500
delegates, deliberated on trade and potential areas of cooperation.
In addition to the Conference, the meet also included an exclusive Exhibition of States of India and ASEAN
Country Pavilions with 70 plus exhibitors, including a virtual showcase of India@2022. The meet provided a
platformforbuyer-sellermeets,businessnetworkingandtechnologyassessments.
Plenary Session 1: Trade in Services
• Greater skilling for the use of new technologies and AI.
• E-visa facility for all ASEAN countries. Currently not available.
• Joint Promotion of the Services Sector agenda at international bodies and emphasis on job
creation.
• Issues of traceability of services trade must be addressed.
• Technology as a common denominator to generate more jobs and engage in other sectors of
the economy.
• Create a better and more flexible understanding of services trade.
Plenary Session 2: Regional Value Chains and Connectivity:
Linking for Collaborations
• Need for enhanced connectivity and investment in quality infrastructure
• Each country needs to work on 4 H - Hunger Reduction, Healthcare Availability, Higher Education &
Happiness Index
• Industry-public sector collaboration required for nurturing innovations for fostering global value
chains

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Plenary Session-4: “Trade & Investment: For a Forward Pace”
• Regional Value Chains need to be created between India and ASEAN. A comprehensive
action plan to be prepared for Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.
• Physical connectivity between India and ASEAN countries remain highly important to further
growth in trade and investments. The need for addressing the emerging challenges of developing
highly efficient human resources and promoting the MSME sector are crucial.
• Detailed information on why the existing connectivity projects are not being completed need to be
prepared and a status report suggesting the way forward also need to be prepared.
• ThereisaneedtofacilitatethecreationofSpecialPurposeVehiclestodevelopconnectivityprojects.
• A special focus needs to be placed on how to enhance the blue economy.
Plenary Session 3: Adding Value: Agriculture and Blue Economy
• India and ASEAN must work together to:
• Adopt a common standard and remove barriers of trade
• To work towards sustainable agriculture
• To explore the possibility of generating alternate energy sources
• To protect the rights of small and marginal farmers
• Management of safety guidelines for maritime
• Sharing of best practices, technology in agriculture
• Maximising safety on food wastage through value-added food processing
Valedictory Session
• Deepen India – ASEAN cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing and
services.
• Deepen and strengthen India – ASEAN cooperation in trade and investment, focus on advancing
B2B linkages through Jt. R&D projects, focus on strengthening cooperation in vocational education
and physical connectivity among others.
• India and ASEAN could focus on included trade in services, promotion of investment and
development of alternate sources of energy.
• NeedtoconcludetheRegionalComprehensiveEconomicPartnership(RCEP)negotiationsin2018.
• Need for more collaborations between India and ASEAN countries
• Technology and innovation – Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Big data etc. for greater
prosperity
• More openness to trade and investment for levelling up domestic value

Government of India
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Key Outcomes
Inaugural Session
• Indian industry was invited to invest in the Eastern Economic Corridor, which is said to be the world's
largest Special Economic Zone.
• Emphasis on getting greater connectivity with ASEAN and how it will help increase its connectivity with
India’s own North-East Region was highlighted. In this respect to improve connectivity through the
development of the 1360 km India-Myanmar-Thailand land route as well as the Trilateral Motor Vehicle
Agreement was mentioned.
Plenary Session 1: Trade in Services
• ASEAN countries are focused on the implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 to
promote free flow of goods and people in the region. India was acknowledged as a major partner
among the ASEAN Countries.
Plenary Session 2: Regional Value Chains and Connectivity: Linking for Collaborations
• Issues related to increasing the maritime and air connectivity between ASEAN and India were raised,
and transforming the corridors of connectivity into economic corridors to be made high priority action
areas was noted.
Plenary Session 3: Adding Value: Agriculture and Blue Economy
• It was noted that value to agriculture will positively impact the geo-strategic transformation underway
and this will eventually add value to the trade.
Plenary Session 4: “Trade & Investment: For a Forward Pace”
• The ASEAN-India FTA on Trade in Goods, signed in 2009, and upgraded by including Services and
Investment has an extremely deep strategic mandate. The true potential has not been realized despite
it being almost a decade since its operationalization and to proceed the same needs to be
commissioned.
Valedictory Session
• ASEAN has outlined that it is committed to concluding the Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) negotiations this year itself.
• A deepen and strengthen of cooperation in trade and investment, focus on advancing B2B linkages
through Jt. R&D projects, focus on strengthening cooperation in vocational education and physical
connectivity among others, was highlighted as a key area of cooperation.

“Agriculture is another sector where there is tremendous potential for cooperation and adding value to
agriculture will positively impact the geo-strategic transformation underway. There is no doubt that the
engine of growth, globally is shifting from the west to east. By 2020, the demand for food is going to be 20%
more. ASEAN countries must come together to dominate the world food market and food wastage must be
minimised and that India and ASEAN can play an important role in reducing wastage.”
Harsimrat Kaur Badal
Hon’ble Minister of Food Processing Industries
Government of India
“ASEAN and India have a deep historical connection. The momentum which we need to push it is marked by
3 C’s of Culture, Commerce, and Connectivity. Indian IT companies do not go abroad to replace jobs but
create jobs and capacity and use new technologies which empower people. Indian people first learn
technology, then adopt it, then enjoy it and therefore get empowered”
Ravi Shankar Prasad
Hon'ble Minister of Electronics and Information Technology and Law and Justice
Government of India
“We have a comprehensive and engaged relationship with ASEAN. Trade is the cornerstone of ASEAN-India
relations and India’s Act East Policy. India and ASEAN possess complementary economies and there is
tremendous scope to expand cooperation. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is being
negotiated and this agreement would enable India to integrate more closely with the region. The role of
physical connectivity in bringing the two regions together the need for industries in both regions to
organize themselves to form Regional Value Chains.”
Suresh Prabhu
Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Industry
Government of India
Quotes
Government of India
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“One of our greatest challenges today is that the world has increasingly started looking inwards. In such
protectionist times, India and the ASEAN nations represent an aspirational world which represents about 2
billion people. Both India and ASEAN were fast growing regions in a world which was slowing down. These
two regions represented areas which were looking outward for growth and not inward. There is great
opportunity for investment in India and prospects to further trade and investment relations with the
ASEAN region especially in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing and services.”
Arun Jaitley
Hon’ble Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs
Government of India
21

“Top gainers are those countries that adjust and adapt to the supply chain value line. Regional
Comprehensive Economic Partnership in terms of market access and market share and its relevance to
regional supply chains.”
Enggartiasto Lukita
Minister of Trade
Republic of Indonesia
“ASEAN is committed to concluding the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations
this year itself. Greater Indian participation in the various forums set up under ASEAN is required.”
Dato Lim Jock Hoi
Secretary General, ASEAN
“The task of transforming India is progressing at an unprecedented scale. The policy initiatives like Make in
India, Ease of Doing business reforms, implementation of the Goods and Services tax pave the way for
major opportunities to invest in India. Easy Foreign Direct Investment norms in the key sectors, simplified
industrial licensing, forest clearances will further accelerate the growth in trade and investments.”
C R Chaudhary
Hon’ble Minister of State for Commerce & Industry
Government of India
“Greater connectivity with ASEAN will help increase its connectivity with India’s own North – East Region and
greater economic integration with the neighborhood will lead to shared prosperity.”
Gen. (Dr.) (Retd.) V K Singh
Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs
Government of India
Government of India
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“We must boost our economic and societal connections and use information technology to deepen
economic engagement. We must see technology as a common denominator to generate more jobs and
engage in other sectors of the economy.”
U Khin Maung Cho
Union Minister of Industry
Republic of the Union of Myanmar
22

“India is one of the leading trading partners of Vietnam and is a major supplier of textiles, garments
and chemicals.”
Cao Quoc Hung
Vice Minister of Industry and Trade
Socialist Republic of Vietnam
“The three main areas for greater collaboration between India and Brunei are Technology, MSMEs, and a
faster conclusion to the RCEP.”
Lim Jock Seng
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and
Second Minister of Foreign Affairs
Brunei
“The axis of globalisation has shifted to the Indo-Pacific region and ASEAN – India partnership is a pivotal
part of it. Thailand’s 4.0 policy which has a flagship development programme called the “Eastern Economic
Corridor” is the world’s largest Special Economic Zone including industrial clusters like smart technology.
I also invite Indian industry to invest in this economic zone."
Chutima Bunyapraphasara
Deputy Minister of Commerce
Thailand
Government of India
asean india
“India and ASEAN need to deepen and strengthen their cooperation in trade and investment, focus on
advancing B2B linkages through Jt. R&D projects, focus on strengthening cooperation in vocational
education and physical connectivity among others.”
Alounkeo Kittikhoun
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office
Lao PDR
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“The need for moving faster in the areas of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between India and
ASEAN, especially in times which are volatile and fast changing. The countries must strive to provide peace,
security, clean and healthy environment and investments which become impactful in the fives of people.”
Nora Kakilala Terrado
Under Secretary (Deputy Minister)
Trade and Investment Promotion Group (TIPG),
Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines
Government of India
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“Physical connectivity between India and ASEAN countries remain highly important to further growth in
trade and investments. The need for addressing the emerging challenges of developing highly efficient
human resources and promoting the MSME sector are crucial.”
Chhuon Dara
Secretary of State, Ministry of Commerce
Cambodia
“It was in the interest of both the ASEAN region as well as India to promote cross border trade and investment
as well as participation in Regional Value Chains. The two regions are natural partners and need to improve
connectivity through the development of the 1360 km India-Myanmar-Thailand land route as well as the
Trilateral Motor Vehicle Agreement.”
Rita Teaotia
Commerce Secretary
Government of India
“India and ASEAN could focus on Developing Global Value Chains, energy and resources, ICT, and tourism,
media and entertainment.”
Rakesh Bharti Mittal
President - Designate
Confederation of Indian Industry and
Vice Chairman, Bharti Enterprises
24

ASEAN-India Students
Exchange Programme
In addition to the ASEAN-India Business and Investment Meet and Expo, the India ASEAN
Students Exchange Programme scheduled from 14-23 January 2018 was also organized by CII.
The Programme saw a total of two hundred and thirty students from all ASEAN countries.
Divided into two groups they landed in Mumbai and Bangalore on 14thJanuary. The Mumbai
group continued to Pune and the Bangalore group to Hyderabad. In all they covered Mumbai,
Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi & Agra.
L-R (Center): ASEAN students with H E Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General, ASEAN Secretary General; Mr J S Mukul, Dean FSI; H E Mr Lim
Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister's office and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Brunei Darussalam Minister of Trade
for Brunei; H E Lim Thuan Kaun, High Commissioner of Singapore to India; H E U Khin Maung Cho, Union Minister of Industry, Republic of the
Union of Myanmar; Mr Suresh Reddy, Indian Ambassador to ASEAN.
14 - 23 January 2018, Mumbai, Pune Bangalore,
Hyderabad, Delhi and Agra
25

Confederation of Indian Industry, (CII) at the request of Ministry of External Affairs, has been
organizing the Student Exchange Programme from all ten ASEAN countries to India for the past
ten years for students to experience the sights and sounds of India and to experience the new
emerging India. This was the 11th batch of ASEAN students. A total two hundred and thirty-one
students from two groups that is Group One: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia and
Group two: Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam attended the exchange
programme.
They met with Educational institutions – IIM, ISB, Symbiosis; Whistling Woods Institute, IES
Management college Research Centre & Amity university; visited manufacturing plants – Godrej
& Boyce, Volvo, Maruti, JCB, Sona Koyo, Hero, Zigma Steel Plant & Sigma; visited historical sites – Taj
Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb, Gateway of India, Akshardham Temple & HAL Electronic & Science
Museum to name a few; met with NGO’s – Literacy India & Anchal School; visited Handicraft expos –
Dilli Haat, Shilpagram; and Delhi. They also had a Luncheon Interaction in the presence of Secretary
General, ASEAN, Trade Minister of Brunei, Trade Minister of Myanmar & officials/Ambassadors
fromMEA.
The students had a satisfactory and an enjoyable visit. They went back armed with knowledge about
India today and armed with a great India experience.
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Asean India Connectivity Summit
11-12 December 2017, The Lalit, New Delhi
(L-R) Ms Shobana Kamineni, President, Confederation of Indian Industry; Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), Hon’ble Minister of State for External
Affairs, Government of India; Mr Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister for Road, Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River
Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India; Mr Phan Tam, Deputy Minister of Ministry of Information and Communications
of Vietnam and Ms Preeti Saran, Secretary East, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India at the Inaugural session of ASEAN India
Connectivity Summit
India and ASEAN are together home to 1.8 billion people, have a combined economy of US$ 3.8
trillion and a substantial share of world resources. With shared land and maritime boundaries,
ASEAN-India relations are firmly embedded in Culture, Commerce and Connectivity. India’s “Look
East Policy” (LEP) was in force for more than two decades, and thereafter, it has been transformed
into “Act East Policy” (AEP) with ASEAN at its core. Starting as a sectoral partner of ASEAN in 1992,
India became a dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1996, a summit-level partner in 2002 and a strategic
partner in 2012. The year 2017 marks 25 years of ASEAN-India dialogue partnership, 15 years of
summit level interaction and 5 years of strategic partnership.
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Inaugural
Mr Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water
Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation in his keynote address acknowledged
robust steps undertaken for upgradation of Indian ports and waterways. He stated that the
highest priority is river and port connectivity and financing holds a key importance to successful
accomplishment of the projects. He shared the details of the Sagar Mala Project which envisages
an investment of Rs. 16 lakh crores for maritime connectivity which will include 14 industrial
clusters. Further to this, he also shared the brief details of the future linkages being created via the
Brahmaputra to connect with India’s North East; the proposed $ 1 billion line of credit to promote
sea, air and road connectivity projects with ASEAN countries; project development fund of $ 77
million created to develop manufacturing hub in CLMV countries and ASEAN India Civil Aviation
task force established to optimize the air connectivity.
Gen (Dr) (Retd) V K Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, in his
special address highlighted Maritime connectivity as the backbone of the efficient and effective
trade deliver a threefold benefit of improving relations; enhancing connectivity and tapping
investment opportunities between India and ASEAN countries. In addition, he stated the need to
promote air connectivity between the ASEAN region and Tier II cities in India. In terms of road
linkages, he stated that projects such as the Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-modal
Transit Transport Project are progressing at a satisfactory pace. He described the important
ingredients of connectivity as sustainable infrastructure, digital innovation, seamless logistics,
regulator excellence and people mobility. He also briefed on the White Shipping Agreements
signed by India with number of countries for providing assistance in capacity building measures
and capability enhancement.
Mr Phan Tam, Deputy Minister for Information and Communications, Ministry of Information and
Communications of Vietnam stated that ASEAN countries are focused on the implementation of
the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 to promote free flow of goods and people in the
region. He acknowledged India as a major partner among the ASEAN Countries.
Ms Shobana Kamineni, President, CII, while chairing the inaugural session stated the importance
of building connectivity between India and ASEAN countries and acknowledged the numerous
benefits it offers. She stated that integration of markets can facilitate in improving networks and
attracting more foreign direct investments along with the benefits of knowledge sharing,
technology transfer and opportunities to connect with regional and global supply chains.
Connectivity is the pathway to shared prosperity. The potential for ASEAN-India connectivity
cooperation has come to the fore in the past decade. Connectivity in all modes is the key to greater
collaborations, economic growth and development. For emerging economies, it is linkages
established through seamless physical and digital connectivity which will unlock the quiescent
potential opening gateway to greater stability across continental relationships giving way to added
economic prosperity.
It is in this backdrop that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in collaboration with the
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the ASEAN-India Centre (AIC) organized the first ever
ASEAN-India Connectivity Summit, themed “Powering Digital and Physical Linkages” from 11-12
December 2017 in New Delhi. Inaugurated by Mr Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister for Road,
Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga
Rejuvenation, Government of India. The Summit witnessed participation of around 250 delegates
with over 25 representations from ASEAN Countries.
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Connectivity: Mega Corridors -
India’s Initiatives
The Special Plenary Session titled Connectivity: Mega Corridors - India’s Initiatives highlighted the
importance of international corridors which impact the future state of the global economy and
shed light on multilateral institutions’ perspectives and contributions toward connectivity
projects.
The Session Chaired by Mr Rajat M Nag, Distinguished Fellow, NCAER and RIS stated the
importance and the benefits of building transport corridors. He emphasized on the need to
change the transport corridors to economic corridors which brings prosperity and enables people
to people connect.
Mr M J Akbar, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India in his special
remarks highlighted the new dimension and definition of Connectivity in the 21st century, he
further added that the map of a region will not only be defined by the geographical locations but
also includes the maps of sea, space and land of the region. He stressed upon the need for greater
collaborations for economic growth and development for which India has taken the lead to build
corridors like North-South Transport Corridor, Asia-Africa Growth Corridor and Indo-Pacific
Economic Corridor.
Ms Anita Prakash, Director General of Policy Design Department, Economic Research Institute of
India (ERIA), Indonesia shared the details on the fundamentals of AAGC (Asia Africa Growth
Corridor). She further elaborated on the four components of the project which include
development and cooperation based projects; quality infrastructure for connectivity; capacity and
skill enhancement and people to people partnerships.
(L-R) Ms Anita Prakash, Director General, Policy Department, ERIA; Mr Rajat Nag, Distinguished Fellow, NCAER, and RIS; Vice Admiral
Pradeep Chauhan, Director, National Maritime Foundation; Mr M J Akbar, Hon’ble Minister for State of External Affairs, Government of India;
Mr Ryoji Furui, Industrial Researcher, JETRO India and Representative of Ministry of Economy, International Trade and Industry of Japan in
India; Mr Ronald Butiong, Director South Asian Development Bank, Philippines and Dr Prabir De, Coordinator, ASEAN-Trade Centre (AIC), RIS
at the Special Plenary session on Connectivity: Mega Corridors-India’s Initiatives.
29

Digital infrastructure provides the foundation for many new technologies, services, applications
and business models. There is a significant need to upgrade infrastructure to support
urbanization. Challenges to digital infrastructure investment include geographic differences,
regulatory uncertainty, high capital expenditure, etc.
Asean-india Digital Connectivity:
Towards An Interconnected Digital Economy
Government of India
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Mr Ronald Butiong, Director for Regional Cooperation and Operations Coordination, ADB,
Philippines stated economic sustainability as the essential points to be considered for enhancing
connectivity. He further added the requirement for setting up multimodal transnational transport
corridors to build road, rail and maritime network for boosting connectivity between India and
ASEAN.
Dr Prabir De, Coordinator, ASEAN-India Centre (AIC), RIS highlighted the massive rise India has
witnessed in the recent times. He emphasized the requirement of quality infrastructure to build
better connectivity within the region.
Vice Admiral Pradeep Chauhan, Director, National Maritime Foundation shared the importance of
maritime security and White Shipping Agreements. He further stated that one of the area which
has not been given much importance is security implication of climate change which lays impact
on the ports and mega corridors.
Mr Ryoji Furui, Industrial Researcher, JETRO India and Representative of Ministry of Economy,
International Trade and Industry of Japan in India shared perspectives of the Indo Pacific region.
He elaborated on the scope of Japanese companies in India and ASEAN region in terms of regional
value chain. He emphasized the essence of multilateral and bilateral trade treaties and its impact
on transforming integrated economies within the region.
(L-R) Mr Sanjay Nayak, CEO & MD, Tejas Network; Mr Shyamal Ghosh, Chairman, Telecom Export Promotion Council; Mr U Soe Thin, Director
General, Department of Posts and Telecommunications, Ministry of Transport and Communications, Government of Myanmar; Mr N K Goyal,
President,CMAIAssociationofIndia;MrPrabhashSingh,Member-Technology,DepartmentofTelecommunications,MinistryofCommunications,
India; Dr Thavisak Manodham, Director General, Department of Information Communications and Technology, Ministry of Post and
Telecommunication, Government of Lao PDR; Mr V Raghunandan, Deputy Director General (IR), Department of Telecommunications and Mr
RakeshKumarBhatnagar,Director,TelecomExportPromotionCouncilattheplenarysessiononASEANIndiaDigitalConnectivitySummit
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Policy imperatives will help ASEAN “leapfrog” into the vanguard of the digital economy making the
region globally competitive and enriching the lives of citizens. Realizing this opportunity must be a
top priority as disruptive technologies such as Internet of Things, Mobile Internet, Big Data and
Cloud Technology are being heralded as the new horizon for convergence of all digital expressways
of the future.
The Plenary Session titled ASEAN-India Digital Connectivity: Towards an Interconnected Digital
Economy threw insights into the areas of collaboration on Digital Connectivity between India and
ASEAN; Regulatory frameworks to support digital technologies; financing and development of
digital infrastructure; Technology adoption by micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and
strategies to build a cohesive and future-ready ASEAN-India Digital economy.
Chaired by Mr N K Goyal, President, CMAI Association of India acknowledge the immense
opportunities which exist for Indian Companies in the ASEAN region and highlighted briefly the
expertise which the Indian Companies can provide.
Mr Rakesh Kumar Bhatnagar, Director, Telecom Export Promotion Council and Mr Prabhash Singh,
Member-Technology, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications shared in
brief the ongoing projects beingexecutedbyTEPCintheASEANcountriesandGovernmentofIndia’s
recently proposed ICT Work Plan 2018 for ASEAN countries that includes several capacity building
programmes,establishingcenterforcybersecurityandsettingupofhigh-performancelab.
Mr U Soe Thein, Director General, Department of Posts and Telecommunications, Ministry of
Transport and Communications, Government of Myanmar shared insights on the project GPON
which is supported by the Government of India extended under Line of credit. In addition, he
briefly shared the initiative taken by Myanmar recently by forming a Digital Economy Development
Committee.
Dr Thavisak Manodham, Director General of Department of Information Communications
Technology, Ministry of Post and Telecommunication, Lao PDR in his remarks captures the
commonalities of Lao PDR and India in terms of geography and culture. He acknowledged the
cooperation received from India for establishment of a center of excellence in software
development with an objective to train and work with India on the digital projects to counter the
challenge of technology adaptation.
Mr Shyamal Ghosh, Chairman, TEPC stressed on the importance on correct utilization of line of
credit being extended by India to fellow countries. He pointed out the concern of sovereign
guarantee and stressed that it can be resolved by finding the alternatives to enable the fullest use
of Line of Credit.
Mr Sanjay Nayak, CEO & MD, Tejas Network highlighted the huge scope which exists for Indian
Companies in the field of ICT in ASEAN countries. He further elaborated that Indian companies
should come forward in engaging with the companies of the ASEAN region to identify new projects
and take forward these projects under Line of credit extended by the Government of India.
Mr V Raghunandan, DDG(IR), Department of Telecommunication, Government of India
mentioning about the various proposals said India would like to form joint working group with
each country of the ASEAN region and take forward the individual projects. He highlighted Disaster
Management as one of the key area where India needs to focus partnership with ASEAN countries.
31

(L-R) Mr Amar Abrol, MD & CEO, Air Asia India; Mr Koustav M Dhar, CEO, Zoom Air; Mr Ajay Singh, Chairman, CII National Committee on
Aviation and Managing Director, Spice Jet Limited; Ms Shefali Juneja, Director, Ministry of Civil Aviation; Mr Kapil Kaul, CEO, CAPA and Mr
Pradeep Panicker, Chief Commercial Officer-Aero Business, Delhi International Airport Limited at the Parallel Session on Sustainable
Infrastructure: Panel Discussion on Aviation
Government of India
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Given the significant role of some Southeast Asian companies in the civil aviation sector and
increasing strategic economic engagement between India and ASEAN, there are immense
possibilities of widening aviation cooperation between India and ASEAN. The Session on Aviation
showcased ongoing ASEAN – India collaborations and highlighted the potential project areas in the
sector.
Mr Ajay Singh, Chairman, CII National Committee on Aviation and Managing Director, Spice Jet
Limited while chairing the session mentioned the need for the Government of ASEAN Countries to
engage the private players to develop the new air corridors. He acknowledged the tremendous
opportunities in the sectors across India and ASEAN region.
Ms Shefali Juneja, Director, Ministry of Civil Aviation in her presentation highlighted the ASEAN-
India cooperation framework, a joint working group being set up which would initially focus on
safety and security aspects of air connectivity. The first meeting of the joint working group is
scheduled in January 2018. She stated the fact that, there are no direct air services between India
and four ASEAN countries — Brunei, Cambodia, the Philippines and Lao-PDR and priority should
be given to overcome this at the earliest.
Mr Kapil Kaul, CEO, CAPA stated Connectivity as the key element for economic prosperity. He
stated the need for Indian carriers to come forward and create the new air hubs and markets in
countries like Cambodia, Philippines or other destinations in the region which are not connected
very well with India. In addition, he emphasized on the need of building air corridors to explore the
new destinations in the region to improve the connectivity and trade.
Mr Pradeep Panicker, Chief Commercial Officer-Aero Business, Delhi International Airport Limited
threw insights on the existing partnership between GMR and the Malaysian Airports Holding
Berhad and the possibility to explore the new collaborations in the region. He clearly stressed on
developing new markets as it will be eventually beneficial for all stakeholders.
Mr Koustav M Dhar, CEO, Zoom Air emphasized the need to improve the air-connectivity and
initiate dedicated cargo airline between the ASEAN region and India.
Mr Amar Abrol, MD & CEO, Air Asia India recommended a common visa for the region introduced
as “ASEAN visa”. In addition, he highlighted trade, cargo and tourism as the key areas holding huge
potential along with medical and religious tourism.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Aviation
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Maritime cooperation is one of the important aspects of the India-ASEAN strategic partnership.
While ASEAN and India have agreed to establish a Maritime Transport Working Group between
India, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam to examine the feasibility of shipping networks,
for both India and ASEAN to maintain its stakes and safeguard its interests in the region, concerted
efforts are required to further strengthen its maritime cooperation. The session on Maritime
showcased ongoing collaborations in the sector, the challenges and the potential project area in
the sector.
Chairing the Session, Mr Anil Devli, CEO, INSA highlighted the importance of shipping routes for
developing infrastructure for freight corridor. He stressed on the development of the eastern
coast of India keeping in view to enhance the connectivity with the ASEAN countries.
Dr Malini V Shankar, DG Shipping, Ministry of Shipping urged the need to explore new sea routes
between India and ASEAN. Countries in addition, she briefly captured the initiatives taken by the
Government of India in order to enhance maritime connectivity with ASEAN Countries.
Mr S K Gangwar, Member (Technical), Inland Waterways Authority of India shared concise details
of the initiatives taken by India for port development in Myanmar and also expressed the desire to
take these initiatives to the rest of the ASEAN countries.
Ms Sangeeta Sharma, Sr. VP in Charge (L&PS) Division, The Shipping Corporation of India briefly
shared the concept of short sea shipping and coastal trade. In addition, she pointed the fact on the
current transportation cost being on higher side between India and ASEAN countries and the
measures which can be adopted for improving maritime connectivity.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Maritime
(L-R) Mr Anil Devli, CEO, INSA; Dr Malini V Shankar, Director General, Shipping, Ministry of Shipping; Mr Arvind Kumar, Adviser, TERI; Mr S K
Gangwar, Member (Technical), Inland Waterways Authority of India; Mr Basant Singh Brar, Delhi Unit Head & Head of Software, Safesea India
Pvt Ltd and Ms Sangeeta Sharma, Sr. VP in Charge (L&PS) Division, The Shipping Corporation of India at Parallel Session on Sustainable
Infrastructure: Panel Discussion on Maritime
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Energy security is one of the foremost priorities of ASEAN and India. Renewable energy
development is common focus of both ASEAN and India. Prime Minister Modi spoke of the “seven
horses of energy”, which include thermal, gas, hydro, and nuclear power, with emphasis given on
the development of solar, wind, and biogas. ASEAN has started implementing the ASEAN Plan of
Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2016-2025. ASEAN countries through the agreements on
enhanced cooperation are intended to achieve a “One ASEAN Community Through Resilient and
Sustainable Energy.”
The Session on Energy chaired by Mr P K Pujari, Former Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government
of India highlighted the Energy sector cooperation between ASEAN and India and discussed the
investment opportunities, and blueprints to facilitate private sector cooperation between the
region. In his remarks, he highlighted that renewable energy is the focus point for future
collaborations. He acknowledged the role played by private sector in this area.
Mr Ghanshyam Prasad, Director, Ministry of Power, Government of India and Dr D K Khare,
Director, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India shared the Government’s
experience and expertise in the sector. In addition, they also highlighted the Government’s
willingness to work together in renewable energy market with the neighboring countries and take
the economic relationship a step ahead.
Mr Ratul Puri, Chairman, Hindustan Power Projects stated the potential in conventional and
renewable energy where Indian companies can explore the ASEAN markets.
Mr S K Roy Mohapatra, Chief Engineer (Power System), Central Electricity Authority stated India’s
target to be the principal source of renewable energy in next 10 years. In addition, he
recommended the formation of the joint working group which help discuss the knowledge and
expertise of the manufacturing; energy production and transmission.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Energy
(L-R) Mr D K Khare, Director, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy; Mr Ratul Puri, Chairman, Hindustan Power Projects; Mr Ghanshyam
Prasad, Director, Ministry of Power; Mr P K Pujari, Former Secretary, Ministry of Power, GoI and Mr S K Roy Mohapatra, Chief Engineer (Power
System), Central Electricity Authority at the Parallel Session on Sustainable Infrastructure: Panel Discussion on Energy
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Islands Connectivity has gained momentum in recent years with ASEAN’s investments in
infrastructure in its islands, and India’s investments in infrastructure, tourism, agriculture (organic
and fisheries) and renewable energy development in Andaman and Nicobar Islands region. There
is a huge scope to unlock the vast potentials of cooperation, particularly in tourism, maritime
security, disaster management, etc.
The session on Island Connectivity highlighted the Investment opportunities and deliberated on
the challenges that need to be addressed for continued growth in the sector. Dr Vijay Shakuja,
Former Director, National Maritime Foundation while chairing the session stated Cruise Tourism
and Marine Leisure Industry as the niche component of the connectivity projects between India
and ASEAN countries. He recommended development of cruise triangle between Lankavi Island,
Andaman and Kolkata connecting with coastal cities of Thailand and Myanmar. In addition, he
stated development of the blue economy and use of digital technology as the key for improving
connectivity between the islands of the ASEAN countries with the Andaman and Nicobar Island.
Admiral R K Dhowan, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.) Chairman, National Maritime Foundation
acknowledged India as a maritime nation and ASEAN as a major trade and strategic partner. In
addition, he stated that blue economy holds a core position of India’s economic activities. He
briefly shared that island development plan envisages inclusion of green field investment projects
with zero carbon foot print to promote cruise tourism with ASEAN countries.
Vice Admiral Pradeep Chauhan (Retd.), Director National Maritime Foundation stated RORO
transport technology holding strong potential between ASEAN countries and India. He mentioned
that the 3 major RORO connectivity routes include Philippines with Indonesia, Malaysia and
Vietnam. He stressed on the adoption of digital technologies to upgrade the maritime sector and
the need to develop a roadmap for integrated maritime transport.
Mr Madhu Bhavi, Chief Engineer, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep Harbour Works
stressed on the need for improving the connectivity of the Andaman Island and Lakshadweep area
with the ASEAN region.
Mr Carmello L Arcella, Executive Director, Civil Aeronautics Board, Philippines shared the
willingness of the Philippines industry to collaborate with India to enhance connectivity
particularly in air and maritime corridors. He shared the fact that Philippines is a maritime country
and constitutes the 4th largest ship builders in the world with the growth of 300% increase in
passengers annually and successfully overcoming the challenges of the congestion in the network.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Island Connectivity
(L-R) Dr Vijay Shakuja, Former Director, National Maritime Foundation; Mr Madhu Bhavi, Chief Engineer, A&N Islands & Lakshadweep
Harbour Works, Ministry of Shipping, India; Adm R K Dhowan, PVSM, AVSM, YS, Chairman, National Maritime Foundation; Vice Adm Pradeep
Chauhan, Director, National Maritime Foundation; Mr Carmelo L Arcilla, Executive Director, Civil Aeronautics Board, Philippines and Dr
Prabir De, Coordinator, ASEAN India Center, RIS at Parallel Session on Sustainable Infrastructure: Panel Discussion on Island Connectivity
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Dr Prabir De, Coordinator, ASEAN India Centre, RIS urged on the need to improve connectivity
between India and ASEAN countries especially Port Blair on Indian side and Indonesia and
Thailand on the ASEAN side. Simultaneously, he also cautioned that developing Andaman should
be slow as it can have an implication on the nature because it is a very sensitive place in terms of
environmental handling.
Roads and Highways form a substantial part of the ongoing cooperation between ASEAN and
India. Sustained investment in infrastructure and innovation are crucial drivers of economic
growth and development. India is already focused on improving road connectivity with ASEAN as it
opens the gateway to increased trade thereby integrating economies.
India has engaged in the implementation of several roads and highways projects such as the India -
Myanmar - Thailand Trilateral Highway (TH), extension of TH to Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam,
and the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project etc.
The Session on Roads and Highways chaired by Mr Ajit Gulabchand, President, Construction
Federation of India (CFI) and Chairman & Managing Director, Hindustan Construction Company
Limited acknowledged the fact that a lot of development has taken place over the years but a lot
more needs to be done.
Sharing the government perspective, Mr Yudhvir Singh Malik, Secretary, Ministry of Road,
Transport and Highways and Mr Nagendra Nath Sinha, Managing Director, National Highways and
Infrastructure Development Corporation shared insights on the key development projects in the
sector such as the Bharat Mala project- an ambitious project for connectivity within the country
and to build connectivity with ASEAN countries. They stressed upon improving connectivity with
ASEAN countries and focused on developing multimodal transit economic corridors.
In addition, Ms Dakshita Das, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways, India said
that connectivity will lead to an increase in growth of India’s GDP. She stated that India and ASEAN
countries are holding consultations on the extension of the India Myanmar Thailand Trilateral
Highway to Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam which will bolster the road connectivity of India with
ASEAN region.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Roads And Highways
(L-R) Mr Zaw Min Oo, DG, Department of Road Transport Administration, Ministry of Road Transport and Communications, Government of
Myanmar; Mr Nagendra Nath Sinha, Managing Director, NHIDC; Mr Ajit Gulabchand, President, Construction Federation of India and Chairman
& Managing Director, Hindustan Construction Corporation Company Limited, Ms Dakshita Das, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Roads and Highways,
GoI; Ms Lai Lai Aye, Chairperson, MandalarMinn, Express & Member UMFCCI, Myanmar; Mr Takema Sakamoto; Chief Representative, JICA India
OfficeandMrSKChaudhary,CMD,IRCONInternationalatPlenarySessiononSustainableInfrastructure:RoadsandHighways
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Mr Takema Sakamoto, Chief Representative, JICA India while sharing his perspective highlighted
the importance of quality in the projects. He stated disaster management as one of the major
areas of collaboration between Japan and ASEAN countries.
Mr U Zaw Min Oo, Director General, Department of Road Transport Administration, Ministry of
Transport and Communications, Government of Myanmar and
Ms Lai Lai Aye, Chairperson, Mandalar Minn Express and Member, Union of Myanmar Federation
of Chamber of Commerce and Industry threw light on the strategies that can be adopted for
enhancing connectivity and the benefits these hold for both the sides.
Mr S K Chaudhary, Chairman & MD, IRCON International stated both physical and emotional
connectivity playing a significant role in building collaborations. He mentioned that uniting
together can help transform the region to become an economic powerhouse with focus on
improving multimodal connectivity.
Northeast India is the pivot to India’s Act East Policy (AEP). A stronger connectivity between ASEAN
and India act as a game changer for India’s Northeastern Region. Connectivity is being
strengthened through the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership projects such as the India-Myanmar-
Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project.
However, given the wide geographical scope and the less developed transport infrastructure, it is
also important to pay explicit attention to the connectivity within and beyond Northeast India.
Enhancing connectivity between ASEAN and Northeast India would open up new opportunities for the
developmentoftheborderareas,whichinturnwouldcontributetonarrowthedevelopmentgaps.
Chairing the session, Mr Jitendra Kumar, Adviser (NRE), Niti Aayog mentioned that connecting
north eastern states will be key for improving connectivity with the ASEAN countries. He
highlighted on key sectors for development and regional connectivity as tourism, agriculture,
horticulture and handicrafts.
Mr Naveen Verma, Secretary, Ministry of Development of the North-Eastern Region, India stated
the geographical demographics of the 8 north eastern states and the unique advantages that
states offers. He shared Government’s initiative to set up a north east regional tourism cell which is
looking at selling tourism packages for the region, across the NE states. He further suggested that a
similar initiative can be done by the ASEAN countries for the north-eastern region.
Asean-india Connectivity: Transforming Northeast
(L-R) Mr Jitendra Kumar, Adviser (NRE), Niti Aayog; Mr Harmit Singh Sethi, Deputy Executive Director, Dalmia Bharat Limited; Mr Naveen
Verma, Secretary, Ministry of DoNER, GoI; Mr P D Rai, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha); Mr Pradeep Bagla, CoChairman, North East Core
Committee on Infrastructure, CII & Managing Director, Amrit Cements Limited; Ms Sripriya Ranganathan, JS (BM), Ministry of External Affairs,
GoI and Ms Mamta Shankar, Adviser, Ministry of DoNER, GoI at Plenary Session 3 on ASEAN-India Connectivity: Transforming Northeast
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Mr P D Rai, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) acknowledged the fact that major changes are
happening in the region which help enhance connectivity. He further stated that the only way we
can unleash the potential is by opening the border gates for increasing trade and more people to
people connect.
Ms Sripriya Ranganathan, Joint Secretary (BM), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
stated the commonalities of Myanmar and other ASEAN countries with India is belief in Buddhism
which also creates the gateways for tourism in the region and people to people connect. In
addition, she highlighted the fact that Bangladesh and Myanmar are the land bordering countries
with the north-eastern parts of India and therefore building connect with these countries will bring
development to the parts of the north-eastern states across these corridors.
Ms Mamta Shankar, Adviser, Ministry of Development of the North-Eastern Region, Government
of India threw light on the potential across the north-eastern states in the handloom and
handicraft; horticulture and agriculture sector and ways these sectors can help in increasing trade
and connecting people of the region.
Mr Pradeep Bagla, Co Chairman, North East Core Committee on Infrastructure, CII & Managing
Director Amrit Cements Limited mentioned that connectivity projects like Kaladan Multimodal and
IMT trilateral highway will help the whole region and make a massive impact in the industrial
growth and socio-economic growth.
Mr Harmit Singh Sethi, Deputy Executive Director, Dalmia Bharat Limited recommended set up of
vocational universities in north eastern part of India and the universities being connected by road
network from Delhi and to the regional countries from Myanmar, Thailand, Lao to Vietnam which
enables the students to take advantage by connecting them across universities and help in
improving higher education, social entrepreneurship and skill development.
(L-R) Mr Akhilesh Kumar Shrivastava, CGM (IT), NHAI; Mr Lim Cheen, Head ASEAN Connectivity Division; Mr Shailesh Pathak, CEO, L&T
Infrastructure Developments Projects Limited and Mr Nathan K Suppiah, Vice President, Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers & Secretary
General, Malaysian National Shippers Council at the Plenary Session on ASEAN Connectivity Master Plan: Harnessing Opportunities
Asean Connectivity Master Plan:
Harnessing Opportunities
The development of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 is a strategic document
that has been drawn up to strengthen ASEAN Community-building through the three dimensions
of physical, institutional and people-to-people connectivity. India has welcomed ASEAN’s own
connectivity projects to strengthen intra-ASEAN linkages, and there are opportunities for
harmonizing this initiative with plans for improving cross-border connectivity across the borders.
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The Session on ASEAN Connectivity Master Plan: Harnessing Opportunities took stock on the
progress made on the proposed Master Plan and deliberated on the strategy to enhance physical
and digital connectivity between India and ASEAN.
Mr Shailesh Pathak, CEO, L&T Infrastructure Developments Projects Limited while chairing the
session expressed interest for 2 pilot projects for improving connectivity namely 10-year business
visa for the ASEAN region and free international roaming within the region.
Mr Lim Cheen, Head ASEAN Connectivity Division said that five strategic areas to be focused for
connectivity are sustainable infrastructure, digital innovation, seamless logistics, regulatory
excellence and people mobility. He said that focus should be to leverage on the ongoing and
proposed connectivity projects that are IMT Trilateral Highway and its extension to Cambodia,
Laos and Vietnam and strengthen the negotiation on ASEAN India Air Transport Agreement and
explore other potential projects. He ended his remarks by saying – “We are connecting today and
we will connect tomorrow”.
Mr Akhilesh Kumar Shrivastava, CGM (IT), NHAI shared the progress of ongoing connectivity
projects and he further stated that many new projects will be introduced once the ongoing projects
are completed.
Mr Nathan K Suppiah, Vice President, Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers & Secretary General,
Malaysian National Shippers Council urged that India should expand the investments in other
countries of ASEAN region as currently India is focusing its investments in CLMV countries only.
This would strengthen India’s presence in the region, he added. He reiterated the suggestion of
ASEAN travel card that should come into existence like the a APEC travel card which allow the
businessman to travel in the region countries without any visa issues.
(L-R) Mr Pankaj Tandon, Vice President, T&D-SAARC, KEC International; Mr Prashant Agarwal, JS (DPA – I), Ministry of External Affairs, GOI; Mr
S Selvakumar JS (ABC), Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance; Mr Nadeem Panjetan, CGM – LoC Group, EXIM Bank and Prof Sachin
Chaturvedi, DG, RIS at Plenary Session on Building Connectivity: Line of Credit
India has proposed to a Line of Credit of US$ 1 billion to promote projects that support physical
and digital connectivity between India and ASEAN. In addition, India has also set-up a Project
Development Fund of US$ 77 million to support manufacturing units in CLMV countries. The
special emphasis on India’s partnership with CLMV will be further cemented through the projects,
especially in the area of capacity building across infrastructure sectors.
Building Connectivity: Line Of Credit
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The session titled Building Connectivity: Line of Credit was chaired by Prof Sachin Chaturvedi,
Director General, Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) highlighted
information on various ongoing and proposed projects of connectivity under India’s Line of Credit
and reiterated fact that promoting physical and digital linkage between India and ASEAN will help
bring huge development in the region.
Mr S Selvakumar, Joint Secretary (ABC), Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance stated
that improved connectivity between India and ASEAN would help reduce transportation costs and
increase trade flows. Effective cross border and national transport projects would result in
stronger connectivity between India and ASEAN region.
Mr Nadeem Panjetan, Chief General Manager - LoC Group, EXIM Bank enumerated how LoCs have
become an important instrument in partnership with the CLMVs. Through a detailed presentation
he informed about the kind of partnerships that can be done with the ASEAN countries. In
addition, he stated that EXIM bank would like to offer partnership for execution of such joint infra
projects. He elaborated the impact of LOCs and EXIM Bank's interventions in strengthening India-
ASEAN relations and the benefits that LoCs bring in to such projects.
Mr Prashant Agarwal, Joint Secretary (DPA –I), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
stated that as part of Government engagement with ASEAN project implementation is critical to
the success of any project. He further added that LoCs are not the only way to fund these projects
and grants could play an important role while looking at project funding.
Mr Pankaj Tandon, Vice President - T&D-SAARC, KEC International sharing his experience in
Bangladesh said that in partner countries clarity is needed at the operational level about how the
execution of these projects and any discrepancies with this regard must be resolved. He also said
that it is important to note how the private sector looks at such viable projects between India and
ASEAN that require Line of Credit support.
(L-R) Mr Ichiro Hayashidani, Chief Representative, JBIC Representative Office; Mr Subash Chandra Garg, Secretary, Department of Economic
Affairs, Ministry of Finance; Mr Vinayak Chatterjee, Chairman, CII Economic Affairs Council and Chairman, Feedback Infra Private Limited and
Mr Ankur Kathuria, Vice President, Transaction Advisory Services, Ernst & Young LLP at Plenary Session on Financing Infrastructure.
Constraints of finance and resultant delays in infrastructure development is a consistent problem
fettering the sector. Searching for solutions to address this problem will consequently help in
resolving other interlocking obstacles. India has been planning infrastructure projects in several
parts of Asia. Financing constrains has become the major issue in building cross-border
connectivity projects.
Financing Infrastructure
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The Session on Financing Infrastructure was chaired by Mr Vinayak Chatterjee, Chairman, CII
Economic Affairs Council and Chairman, Feedback Infra Private Limited highlighted the key
changes that have taken place in financing and the futuristic approach to move from the
commercial banks to the capital markets. A big push is being observed in public expenditure and
PPP is an important instrument in new and emerging sectors.
Mr Subhash Chandra Garg, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, India
said globally most of the growth is coming from the emerging markets like China, India and other
countries from ASEAN. He mentioned that going forward growth will come from infrastructure
projects – both digital and physical. These projects are going to be funded in 3 ways – Government,
private and a combination of both. He mentioned that through all these projects $12-13 billion
investment mobilization for infrastructure projects in India is expected. He suggested that there is
big money in pension funds so we should think of how to get that money into such projects.
Mr Ichiro Hayashidani, Chief Representative, JBIC Representative Office said that India’s PPP
success stories should be shared with ASEAN countries so that similar projects can be undertaken
in the region. In addition he stated that JBIC is keen to support infrastructure financing projects in
the region and it can also introduce energy efficient & reliable technology from Japan.
Mr Ankur Kathuria, Vice President, Transaction Advisory Services, Ernst & Young LLP mentioned
about challenges in structuring the projects and said that a lot of Infrastructure projects get stuck
as the approvals take time so these projects need to be handled in a systematic manner.
(L-R) Mr Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President Designate, CII & Vice Chairman, Bharti Enterprises; Mr Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Minister of State for
Communications (IC), GoI; Mr Chankosal Tauch, Secretary of State, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, The Kingdom of Cambodia; Ms Preeti
Saran,SecretaryEast,MinistryofExternalAffairs,GoIandDrPrabirDe,Coordinator,ASEANIndiaCentre(AIC),RISattheValedictorySession
Mr Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Minister of State for Communication (Independent Charge), Government
of India stated that India is working towards improving digital connectivity between India and
ASEAN countries and that will benefit a lot of lives of the two regions. He mentioned that India is
very well connected digitally with the ASEAN region and with Singapore as a major hub. He stated
that India has always been keen to learn from the best practices followed by countries in the ASEAN
region to strengthen digital connectivity within the country.
Valedictory Session
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Mr Chankosal Tauch, Secretary of State, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Cambodia stated
that India and ASEAN countries need to work together to facilitate cross-border trade to boost
growth. He reiterated Cambodia’s commitment for working towards India-ASEAN connectivity. He
pointed out that maritime connectivity is one of the key areas for boosting India - ASEAN
connectivity. To facilitate maritime connectivity, Cambodia is in process of negotiating with private
investors for building and connecting highways with its major ports.
Ms Preeti Saran, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs stated that connectivity would
determine how India and ASEAN will grow in the future and keeping this in mind India is
undertaking several initiatives related to connectivity with the ASEAN region. She said in her view
there are three “C’s” - Commerce, Culture and Connectivity that will define India’s relationship with
South East Asia. She mentioned that some of the connectivity related initiatives that India is
undertaking are building of roads to link India’s Northeast to the ASEAN region, strengthening
maritime security and establishment of new trade routes between India and South-East Asia.
Dr Prabir De, Coordinator, ASEAN - India Centre (AIC), RIS highlighted some of the outcomes of the
Summit. He stated that India and ASEAN have formed Joint Working Groups to harmonise ASEAN -
India Maritime, Road and Aviation Connections. He mentioned that plans have been put in place to
enhance digital connectivity between the two regions and Island connectivity took center stage at
the Summit and there is also a need to look at ways of conserving ocean resources. He highlighted
the need to transform the transport corridors that can be developed into economic corridors by
developing manufacturing zones around them. There is also a need to integrate with the other
regional initiatives in the region like BIMSTEC.
Mr Rakesh Bharti Mittal, President Designate, CII chaired the session and stated that the ASEAN -
India relationship needed a reinvigorated approach with greater private sector participation. He
said that private sector should drive the agenda of integration of ASEAN region in the sectors of
energy, water management, education, health care agriculture, food processing and natural
resources exploration. He stated that the ASEAN - India Connectivity Summit is being
institutionalized as an Annual Event.
Government Policy
Ÿ Policy restructuring to address the concerns of Sovereign Guarantee and enable optimum utilization of
line of credit between India and ASEAN.
Ÿ Introduction of ASEAN travel card to encourage Entrepreneurs to travel and expand their business
across the region. (eg existing APEC travel card)
Infrastructure Development
Ÿ Extension of India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Project to Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam and
with major cities of North east India.
Ÿ Enhance physical connectivity by introducing direct flights between Indian cities and Cambodia, Laos,
Myanmar and Vietnam.
Ÿ Improve physical and digital connectivity to further strengthen international border areas
Ÿ Encourage private sector participation in the development of multi modal transport corridors between
India-CLMV Countries.
Ÿ Transform transport corridors to economic corridors by developing manufacturing zones around
them.
Ÿ Adoption of Digital technologies to upgrade the maritime sector
Ÿ Formulation of a roadmap for integrated maritime transport
Key Recommendations
42

ASEAN-INDIA Initiatives 2017-18

ASEAN-INDIA Initiatives 2017-18

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