Sunday, December 11 2005 17:45 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh arrived here today (Dec 11, 2005) on a four-day visit to participate in the India-ASEAN summit and the first East Asia summit.

In a statement prior to his departure, the Prime Minister had said, "The first East-Asia summit is the beginning of a process that brings together countries with increasing inter-linkages and growing inter-dependence," he said in a statement before leaving for Kuala Lumpur.

"It is our expectation that the Summit will articulate a collective long-term vision for shaping the regional architecture and promoting community-building."

"The India-ASEAN Summit is an occasion to review the progress that has been made in our relationship with ASEAN countries and consider new initiatives for cooperation that we can undertake jointly," he said. During his stay in Kuala Lumpur, Singh will hold discussions with several leaders on strengthening bilateral ties.

He will also interact with local business leaders besides addressing the Special Leaders Dialogue organised by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council.