PM Modi to Skip ASEAN Summit 2025
PM Modi to Skip ASEAN Summit 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be traveling to Malaysia for the upcoming ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Leaders’ Summit. Instead, he is expected to participate virtually, citing ongoing festival celebrations and domestic political commitments.
The confirmation came from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who stated that Prime Minister Modi personally informed him of his decision over a phone call earlier this week.
According to Anwar Ibrahim, Modi mentioned the Diwali celebrations in India as the primary reason for his inability to attend the summit in person. However, sources within the Indian government revealed that the Chhath festival on October 28 — an important cultural event especially in Bihar — played a major role in the decision. With Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for November 6 and 11, Modi’s presence in the country has been deemed essential.
PM Modi to Skip ASEAN Summit in Malaysia; Virtual Participation Planned Amid Festival Season and Domestic Priorities
Political and Cultural Priorities Over Diplomacy
Officials familiar with the matter emphasized that Prime Minister Modi’s decision reflects both cultural sensitivity and domestic political priorities. The Chhath festival, celebrated widely across North India, especially in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, holds immense emotional value among millions of devotees.
“Given the timing of Chhath and the upcoming Bihar polls, the Prime Minister’s engagement within the country was considered more appropriate,” said a government source.
No Modi-Trump Meeting on the Sidelines
The development has also reduced the likelihood of a highly anticipated meeting between Prime Minister Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump, who is also attending the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. Diplomatic circles had expected a possible discussion between the two leaders on the sidelines of the event.
However, sources suggest that both nations are still finalizing a bilateral trade agreement, and it was felt that any formal Modi–Trump meeting would be more productive after the deal’s conclusion.
India’s Virtual Participation
Despite skipping physical attendance, India will remain an active participant in the ASEAN proceedings. Prime Minister Modi is expected to address the summit virtually, reaffirming India’s commitment to the “Act East Policy” and strengthening regional ties in trade, technology, and security.
Officials also confirmed that the virtual format will not affect India’s engagement level, as several key sessions are being designed to accommodate hybrid participation from global leaders.
Looking Ahead
While Modi’s absence in Malaysia has drawn international attention, diplomatic observers note that India’s engagement with ASEAN remains strong. The focus now shifts to future summits and the possibility of a rescheduled Modi-Trump bilateral meeting, potentially after the trade talks reach a final stage.
As India celebrates Diwali and Chhath — two festivals symbolizing light, faith, and gratitude — the Prime Minister’s decision underscores the delicate balance between international diplomacy and domestic responsibilities.
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