CM Sarma Projects Assam To Lead India's Act East Policy At Advantage Assam 2.0

GUWAHATI: Speaking at the high-level session titled "Act East, Act Fast, Act First" as part of Advantage Assam 2.0, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared his ambition of transforming the state into one that contributes considerably to India's growth rather than relying on assistance. He emphasized that Assam's development is key to achieving the goal of Vikshit Assam and Vikshit Bharat by 2047.

The event, held in Guwahati, was attended by Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who reiterated the Government of India's strong commitment to the Act East Policy. He highlighted India's diplomatic engagements with ASEAN nations and Assam's crucial role in strengthening infrastructure and economic linkages to promote greater regional integration.

According to CM Sarma, Assam has historically served as both a geographical and cultural bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia. He underscored the state's strategic role in India's Act East Policy, focusing on enhancing regional connectivity, boosting trade, and strengthening cross-border collaboration.

He further announced that the central government is actively working with ASEAN nations to streamline trade policies, including revising the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), to ensure smoother economic exchanges.

The session commenced with an introduction by Dr. Harsh V. Pant, Vice President—Studies and Foreign Policy at the Observer Research Foundation. He highlighted India-ASEAN partnerships in key sectors such as infrastructure, green energy, health and pharmaceuticals. Dignitaries from various nations lauded Assam's potential.

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