Busy Asean days ahead: Govt looks to strengthen political, economic ties

Long-proposed trade deal uncertain; govt will look to strengthen political, economic ties

For the government, the last week of January will focus on India’s reach in Southeast Asia as business delegations and government officials from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) pour in here.

However, beyond the spectacle, a shaky trade deal and China’s growing footprint in the region will keep discussions tight.

After a picture-perfect trip by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week, the government is preparing to project heightened trade and security 

ties with the 10 Asean nations, whose leaders would be the collective guests of honour on Republic Day. Before that, starting Monday, the Asean-India 

Business and Investment Meet and Expo