Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Wednesday that he will participate virtually in the 47th ASEAN Summitbeing held in Kuala Lumpur, effectively ruling out any chance of an in-person meeting with US President Donald Trump.
In a post on X, PM Modi shared that he had a “warm conversation” with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, congratulating him on Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and extending best wishes for the success of the upcoming meetings.
“Had a warm conversation with my dear friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia. Congratulated him on Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and conveyed best wishes for the success of the upcoming Summits. Look forward to joining the ASEAN-India Summit virtually, and to further deepening the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Modi wrote.
PM Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the call, noting ongoing efforts to strengthen Malaysia-India relations in trade, technology, education, and regional security. He also said that Modi’s decision to attend virtually was influenced by Deepavali celebrations in India.
“I respect his decision and extended my greetings for a happy Deepavali to him and the people of India,” Anwar added.
Meanwhile, the Congress Party criticized the move, suggesting that Modi wanted to avoid a possible face-to-face encounter with President Trump.
“Now it appears certain that the PM will not go. It means losing many opportunities for global engagement,” Congress leader Jairam Ramesh wrote on X, alleging that Modi “doesn’t want to be cornered by President Trump.”
The India-US relationship has recently faced challenges due to trade frictions and Washington’s outreach to Pakistan, though New Delhi maintains that bilateral defense cooperation remains strong.
The 47th ASEAN Summit will be held from October 26–28 in Kuala Lumpur, with participation from all ten ASEAN member nations and key dialogue partners including China, Japan, and the United States.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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