"India assures the Asean of its steady support towards achieving a rulesbased regional security architecture that best attests to the region's interests and its peaceful development," he said.Modi and Duterte resolved to expand bilateral ties. "Both leaders said the scourge of terrorism has to be dealt with effectively," secretary (east) in the MEA, Preeti Saran, told reporters. All the 10 Asean leaders will be chief guests at the 2018 Republic Day celebrations. "The befitting theme of 'Shared Values, Common Destiny' for our 25th anniversary celebrations has been jointly celebrated... I look forward to a befitting culmination of the commemorative year and receiving you at the India-Asean Special Commemorative Summit on January 25 in New Delhi," Modi said.

Source: Times of India November 14, 2017 21:36 UTC