Why is PM Modi skipping the ASEAN Summit?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will skip travelling to Kuala Lumpur for the 47th ASEAN Summit later this week and instead participate virtually, a decision that has triggered much speculation in diplomatic and political circles.

While the Ministry of External Affairs has not given an official reason, several factors appear to have influenced the move.

According to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who spoke with Modi over phone on Wednesday, the Indian leader cited ongoing Deepavali festivities in India as the reason for attending the summit online. “He informed me that he will attend it virtually due to the ongoing Deepavali celebrations in India at that time. I respect his decision and extend my Deepavali greetings to him and all the people of India,” Anwar posted on X.

However, political observers believe the upcoming Assembly election in Bihar — one of the most politically significant states for the BJP — could be another key consideration. The PM is expected to devote considerable time to campaigning as the state heads for polls soon.

Additionally, diplomatic sources say Modi’s decision may also be influenced by the presence of US President Donald Trump at the summit. Relations between New Delhi and Washington have recently been strained after the US imposed steep tariff hikes on Indian exports. The leadership in New Delhi may have preferred to avoid a face-to-face encounter with Trump amid the ongoing trade friction.

Despite skipping the visit, India will be represented at the ASEAN Summit by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who will travel to Kuala Lumpur later this week. Modi is expected to address the ASEAN-India Summit segment virtually.

Observers also point out that the PM is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin later this year, a key engagement in India’s foreign policy calendar as New Delhi continues to balance ties between major global powers amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The ASEAN Summit, to be held on October 26-27, will bring together leaders from across Southeast Asia and key dialogue partners, including India, the US, China, Japan, and Australia, to discuss regional security, trade and strategic cooperation.