Considering the work of the ASEAN-India Eminent Persons Group (AIEPG), and its Report with recommendations for forging a closer partnership for peace, progress and shared prosperity, the Heads of the State/Government of ASEAN and India at the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit 2012, held at New Delhi on 19-20 December 2012, recommended the establishment of ASEAN India Centre (AIC) using existing resources at New Delhi. AIC was formally inaugurated by the Hon’ble External Affairs Minister of the Government of India at RIS on 21 June 2013.
The AIC is serving as a resource centre for ASEAN Member States and India to fill the knowledge gaps that currently limit the opportunities for cooperation. The AIC is closely working with both the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to undertake and disseminate policy research and provide analytical policy recommendations.
Overall objective of AIC is to strengthen India’s partnership with ASEAN in its realization of the ASEAN Community, comprising the three pillars: ASEAN Political Security Community; the ASEAN Economic Community; and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community. The AIC undertakes regular networking activities with relevant organizations and think-tanks in India and ASEAN Member States, with the aim of providing up-to-date information, data resources and sustained interaction to promote the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership (AISP) and ASEAN-India Plan of Action (POA).
The AIC assists in the implementation of the ASEAN-India, apart from promoting ASEAN-India cooperation in the interlinked areas of water, energy, connectivity, food security, etc.
AIC has been producing high quality research and analysis on various aspects of regional economic cooperation and integration related issues. Its research agenda has been developed in close consultation with research institutions and policy makers, for effective implementation of AISP objectives. AIC research and activities have been disseminated through various means, including a dedicated website, a working paper and a policy brief series, newsletters and other publications. More importantly, AIC thematic works provides both the research institutions and policy makers with an opportunity to exchange information, share ideas, and review and refine research findings.