Prime Minister Narendra Modi has informed Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that he will attend the upcoming India-Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit virtually, citing the ongoing Deepavali celebrations in India. This decision comes amid speculation about a potential meeting with United States President Donald Trump at the summit, especially as tensions persist over trade and regional issues. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar will represent Modi at the East Asia Summit. The opposition Congress party has criticized Modi's absence, suggesting he is avoiding direct engagement with Trump due to sensitive diplomatic matters.