India, Oct. 26 -- The Government of India has issued a release:

Your Excellency, Prime Minister and my friend Anwar Ibrahim, Your Majesty, Excellencies,

Namaskar.

I am delighted to have had the opportunity once again to join my ASEAN family.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for the successful chairmanship of ASEAN. I thank President Marcos of the Philippines for efficiently fulfilling the role of India's country coordinator. And I warmly welcome Timor-Leste as the newest member of ASEAN.

On behalf of the people of India, I convey my deepest condolences to the Royal Family and the people of Thailand on the passing of the Queen Mother.

Friends,

India and ASEAN together represent nearly one-fourth of...