PM Modi to Attend ASEAN Summit Virtually, Skipping Physical Presence in Malaysia as Trump Joins Online

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed that he will not travel to Malaysia to attend the upcoming ASEAN Summit, opting instead to participate virtually. The summit, scheduled to be held in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 28, will also see former U.S. President Donald Trump join online.

The confirmation came after weeks of speculation over whether Modi would meet Trump in person at the event. In a post on social media platform X, Modi said he had a “warm and productive” conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and expressed India’s continued commitment to deepening the “ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” He added that he looks forward to contributing to the summit’s discussions through virtual participation.

This marks the second time since 2014 that Modi will skip an in-person ASEAN Summit. The last time he participated virtually was in 2022, during the pandemic-related travel restrictions. Modi has been a regular participant at the annual ASEAN-India summits, which form a crucial part of India’s “Act East” policy aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and cooperation with Southeast Asian nations.

The decision to stay away from the summit in person has stirred political and diplomatic conversations. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have speculated that Modi’s absence might be linked to his reluctance to meet Trump. The former U.S. president’s participation in the same event had sparked discussions about a possible bilateral meeting on the sidelines, which now appears unlikely.

Diplomatic observers note that the move could carry symbolic significance. Physical attendance at high-level summits has traditionally been seen as a signal of strong commitment to regional partnerships. Modi’s decision to attend virtually may be perceived as a cautious diplomatic choice, especially amid recent tensions between India and the U.S. over trade and energy issues. Washington’s recent tariffs on Indian oil imports from Russia and ongoing trade disagreements have added strain to the otherwise strategic partnership between the two countries.

Officials in New Delhi, however, maintain that Modi’s decision stems from scheduling and logistical reasons, rather than political considerations. They assert that India remains deeply engaged with ASEAN and will continue to advance cooperation in trade, digital connectivity, and maritime security.

Malaysia, as this year’s ASEAN chair, is hosting the summit under the theme of strengthening regional resilience and economic integration. While Modi’s physical absence may alter the optics, officials expect India’s virtual participation to reaffirm its policy of prioritizing Southeast Asia as a key partner in its regional diplomacy.

The spotlight will now turn to how India’s delegation represents its interests at the summit and whether any significant policy outcomes emerge despite the prime minister’s virtual presence.