Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially confirmed that he will participate in the upcoming ASEAN-India Summit (scheduled for October 26-28 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) via a virtual mode, rather than attending in person. This confirmation was made following a phone call with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.BULLMER Striped Textured Printed Polo Neck Fullsleeve T-Shirt with Rib for Men

Key Facts from the Announcement:

Official Reason: The official reason provided by PM Modi to his Malaysian counterpart was the ongoing Deepavali celebrations in India.

Indian Representation: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to represent India physically at the ASEAN meetings.

PM Modi’s Post: The Prime Minister stated on X (formerly Twitter): "Look forward to joining the ASEAN-India Summit virtually, and to further deepening of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."Also Read; GST Rate Cuts Spark Diwali Sales Boom: Middle-Class Spending Soars; Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Delighted

Missed Meeting: This decision means PM Modi will miss a planned in-person meeting with US President Donald Trump, who is scheduled to be at the Summit. This comes amid diplomatic tensions over India's Russian oil purchases and trade tariffs.

Opposition Reaction: Opposition parties have criticized the move, suggesting the Prime Minister is deliberately avoiding an in-person encounter with President Trump to prevent being publicly "cornered" on contentious issues.