NEW DELHI For the first time in its history, India's Republic Day parade had not one but 10 guests of honor: the leaders of all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The expanded guest list for the Jan. 26 event is a reflection of the bloc's increasing importance to New Delhi amid China's growing influence.
The historic participation of all ASEAN leaders came a day after a commemorative summit held to mark 25 years of India-ASEAN partnership.
