Former diplomat Preeti Saran has underscored the enduring cultural and maritime connections between India and Southeast Asia through the legacy of the Champa civilisation.
Addressing a recent conference on “Revisiting India – Champa Heritage in Southeast Asia” at Pondicherry University, jointly organised by the UGC Centre for Maritime Studies, Pondicherry University and India Foundation, New Delhi, Ms. Saran said the India-Vietnam comprehensive strategic partnership would further strengthen the bilateral bonds shaped by cultural and historical influences.
Ms. Saran, a former Ambassador to Vietnam and currently a member of the governing council of India Foundation, also stressed the importance of the technical assistance provided by India for the heritage site conservation at Angkor to the tune of 2.5 million USD.
Sunaina Singh, Member of the Board of Trustees, India Foundation, emphasised the importance of “oceanic thinking”” and explained how ASEAN’s development becomes crucial in the revival of cultural heritage ties with East Asia.
A. Subramanyam Raju, Coordinator, UGC Centre for Maritime Studies, highlighted the role of maritime business in turning India into a rising power. He stressed the importance of leveraging India’s islands and geographical location for strategic connectivity with South East Asia and other countries.
G.Chandrika, Dean, School of Social Sciences and International Studies, Pondicherry University, and Shristi Pukhrem, Deputy Director (Academics & Research), India Foundation also spoke.