KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 (Bernama) -- 

The 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) was held on 9 July 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Meeting was chaired by Malaysia under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”.

The Meeting was opened by The Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia. In his remarks, Prime Minister Anwar highlighted ASEAN's strength in its habits of cooperation and its willingness to keep engaging. He emphasised that ASEAN is a region that charts its own course deliberately, coherently, and with purpose. Prime Minister Anwar underlined the principle of Centrality as ASEAN's guiding principle, which is crucial for maintaining the region's role as the primary anchor for dialogue and ensuring external partners continue to find value in engaging with ASEAN. In line with the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, he called for greater synergy across pillars and sectors, and proposed for ASEAN Foreign Ministers and ASEAN Economic Ministers to move in concert in facing challenges. He underscored the importance of fortifying ASEAN’s internal foundations, by increasing intra-ASEAN trade and investment and advancing integration across sectors.

ASEAN COMMUNITY BUILDING

We recognised the significant progress achieved in deepening regional integration, strengthening ASEAN Centrality and unity, and fostering a stable, prosperous, and people-centred Community through the full and effective implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025. We welcomed the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community and recognised that the Vision and its attendant Blueprints, the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration Work Plans III and IV, have guided ASEAN’s collective efforts in fostering regional peace, stability and prosperity. We also recognised the substantial benefits realised from the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), ASEAN Connectivity and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration, which have reinforced ASEAN as a united, inclusive, integrated, resilient and forward-looking Community. 

We reaffirmed the strategic importance of the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future and looked forward to its full and effective implementation towards realising a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred ASEAN Community. We further reaffirmed our commitment to maintaining ASEAN-centred, open, inclusive, transparent and rules-based regional architecture that upholds international law, and to strengthening mutually beneficial engagement and cooperation with external partners on the four priority areas of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) through ASEAN-led mechanisms.

We looked forward to the outcomes of the End-of-Term Reviews of the APSC Blueprint 2025, AEC Blueprint 2025, ASCC Blueprint 2025, and the MPAC 2025, and agreed to integrate the lessons learned and best practices to effectively realise ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future and further advance ASEAN Community-building. 

We reaffirmed our shared commitment to maintaining and promoting peace, security and stability in the region, as well as to the peaceful resolution of disputes, including full respect for legal and diplomatic processes, without resorting to the threat or use of force, in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

We reiterated the importance of strengthening ASEAN’s institutional capacity and effectiveness to further advance the ASEAN Community. We recalled the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on Strengthening ASEAN’s Capacity and Institutional Effectiveness and the Recommendations on Strengthening ASEAN’s Capacity and Institutional Effectiveness. In this regard, we encouraged greater coordination among relevant ASEAN Organs and Sectoral Bodies to ensure the effective implementation of strategic measures on institutional strengthening in the APSC Strategic Plan of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

We acknowledged the continuous efforts of the ASEAN Organs and Sectoral Bodies in advancing ASEAN Community-building. We welcomed their ongoing work to develop and align their respective Work Plans to support the realisation of the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.

We welcomed the development of the Complementarities Initiative 2.0, which builds on the 2017 Complementarities Initiative, with a renewed focus on addressing emerging sustainability challenges in line with the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. We reaffirmed the importance of enhancing synergies between the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (UN 2030 Agenda). We further emphasised the need for stronger and more coordinated collaboration to accelerate progress toward the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future and the UN 2030 Agenda, including through the work of the ASEAN Centre for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD), and to fully and effectively implement the Pact for the Future and its annexes, the Global Digital Compact and Declaration on Future Generations.

We welcomed the forthcoming ASEAN Sustainable Developemnt Goals (SDGs) Indicators Progress Report 2025, which will track ASEAN’s progress in achieving the SDGs by analysing selected indicators for each goal. We looked forward to its successful completion as a key tool to support evidence-based policymaking in the region.

We welcomed the convening of the 2nd ASEAN Future Forum under the theme “Building a United, Inclusive and Resilient ASEAN amid Global Transformation”, held on 25-26 February 2025 in Ha Noi, Viet Nam. We recognised that this Forum meaningfully complemented the ongoing agenda in ASEAN and its Report was submitted to ASEAN Leaders for notation and circulated to relevant sectoral bodies for reference. We further welcomed Viet Nam’s plan to convene the ASEAN Future Forum in the years to come. 

We reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to an inclusive and sustainable regional community by supporting Timor-Leste’s full membership in ASEAN. We underscored our commitment to implement the ASEAN Leaders’ decision at the 46th ASEAN Summit, as follows: “to admit Timor-Leste as the 11th member of ASEAN at the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025 and task our Ministers and Senior Officials to undertake the procedural steps for the admission of Timor-Leste by the 47th ASEAN Summit, as well as to expedite negotiations on the key economic agreements.” We welcomed Timor-Leste’s commitment to accede to, implement and abide by all ASEAN treaties, conventions, agreements and instruments under the three ASEAN Community pillars, in accordance with Criterion II of the objective and criteria-based Roadmap for Timor-Leste’s Full Membership in ASEAN, which was adopted by the Leaders at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in May 2023 as the basis for Timor-Leste’s membership in ASEAN. We expressed our readiness to support Timor-Leste in this regard, in accordance with each instrument’s provisions. We expressed our commitment to support Timor-Leste in expediting its early accession to the key ASEAN economic agreements to facilitate its full integration into ASEAN. We looked forward to Timor-Leste fulfilling its roles and obligations as an incoming member state and its commitment to uphold ASEAN’s fundamental principles. 

We commended Timor-Leste’s active participation as an Observer in ASEAN meetings and its commitment to full membership and fulfilling all criteria under the Roadmap for Timor-Leste’s Full Membership in ASEAN. We encouraged Timor-Leste to continue accelerating its institutional capacities and deepening engagement with all ASEAN Sectoral Bodies to carry out the obligations of ASEAN membership. We further encouraged continued efforts by Timor-Leste to align its domestic policies, processes, and frameworks with ASEAN agreements and frameworks, in promoting a smooth and effective integration process.

We looked forward to Timor-Leste’s meaningful contribution to the implementation of the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, noting that Timor-Leste’s efforts towards ASEAN integration will help strengthen ASEAN’s resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability. We welcomed the operationalisation of the Timor-Leste Unit at the ASEAN Secretariat, which will serve as a vital mechanism to facilitate Timor-Leste’s integration into ASEAN structures and processes and to support and monitor Timor-Leste’s full implementation of the Roadmap. We encouraged continued engagement and support from ASEAN Member States to facilitate Timor-Leste’s transition towards ASEAN membership, as well as its continued efforts to fulfil the Roadmap following its admission to ASEAN.

We agreed to coordinate and provide mutual support for ASEAN Member States’ candidacy in regional and international organisations, where possible. In this regard, we reaffirmed ASEAN’s support for the Philippines to become a Non-Permanent Member of the UN Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2027-2028, as well as for Viet Nam to become a Member to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the term 2026-2028, as ASEAN candidates. We encouraged the ASEAN SOM Leaders to continue their discussions on the draft guidelines for designating ASEAN candidatures to the UN bodies and international organisations, which will further manifest ASEAN Centrality, unity and solidarity, and contribute to the enhancement of ASEAN’s profile at international fora. 

ASEAN Connectivity 

We commended the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee, Lead Implementing Bodies and relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, as well as National Coordinators, National Focal Points and relevant national agencies for their dedication and support in ensuring the meaningful and effective implementation of the MPAC 2025 by the end of this year. 

We underscored the importance of implementing the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan (ACSP) to enhance regional connectivity among ASEAN Member States and with external partners, leveraging synergies through the “connecting the connectivities” approach. We looked forward to the further development of activities to implement the Strategic Measures, as well as the finalisation of a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to guide the future implementation of the ACSP. 

We looked forward to the convening of the 16th ASEAN Connectivity Symposium, which will be held later this year in Malaysia, with the support of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia. The Symposium will further support Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship priorities and foster greater collaboration for the effective implementation of the ACSP.  

ASEAN Smart Cities Network

We commended the ASEAN Smart Cities Network for its continued efforts in advancing smart and sustainable urban development. We also appreciated the support of ASEAN’s external partners through initiatives such as the ASEAN Smart City Financing Toolkit, the ASEAN Smart City Professional Programme, and Accelerating the Implementation of the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Strategy – Phase II. We looked forward to the 8th ASEAN Smart Cities Network Annual Meeting and the 2nd ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Forum to be held in Kuala Lumpur later this year. 

Initiative for ASEAN Integration 

We reaffirmed our commitment to narrow the development gap within and among ASEAN Member States, including through the implementation of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan IV (2021-2025), which made significant progress with the continued support and assistance of ASEAN Member States and its external partners. In the Work Plan's final year, we urged the IAI Task Force, IAI National Coordinators, IAI Focal Points, and all other relevant stakeholders to expedite the completion of all outstanding actions by December 2025. We agreed to ensure the successful conclusion of this phase and reaffirm our commitment to develop the IAI Work Plan V. The new Work Plan will incorporate elements of, and align with the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, drawing on the lessons from the implementation of previous IAI Work Plans, and taking into consideration the recommendations from the Reframed Strategies for Narrowing Development Gaps and Promoting Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Growth within the ASEAN Region. We will continue efforts to realise ASEAN Community that is no longer divided by the development gaps among its Members, as well as to promote inclusive, participatory and equitable access to economic opportunities. 

Sub-Regional Cooperation 

We reaffirmed the importance of ASEAN unity and Centrality in promoting sub-regional development. We recognised the relevance and complementarity of subregional development to ASEAN’s regional integration and Community-building process, especially in advancing economic integration and narrowing the development gap. In this regard, we encouraged to explore, strengthen, and promote closer coordination, collaboration, and synergy between ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and ASEAN-approved sub-regional cooperation frameworks, to facilitate the realisation of this endeavour, including in possible areas of cooperation such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, smart agriculture, energy connectivity, digital transformation, food, water and energy security. 

We reiterated our commitment to further promote equitable, inclusive and sustainable development across the ASEAN Community by aligning sub-regional growth with the comprehensive development of ASEAN and strengthening engagement with ASEAN-approved sub-regional cooperation frameworks, including in the Mekong area, such as the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), as well as the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), and the Singapore-Johor-Riau (SIJORI) Growth Triangle. We noted the convening of the 11th Cambodia-Lao PDR-Myanmar-Viet Nam Summit in November 2024, and the 16th IMT-GT Summit and the 16th BIMP-EAGA Summit in May 2025. These initiatives reflect ASEAN’s commitment to promoting equitable, inclusive and sustainable development across all sub-regions of ASEAN. We welcomed the continued support and assistance of external partners in the relevant processes.  

ASEAN POLITICAL-SECURITY COMMUNITY

We reaffirmed the importance and relevance of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) as a foundational code of conduct for inter-state relations in the region and a cornerstone of regional peace and stability. We remained committed to promoting and upholding the principles enshrined in the TAC, and emphasised the responsibility of all High Contracting Parties (HCPs) to fulfill their Treaty obligations. We welcomed the growing interest of non-regional countries to accede to the TAC, based on respect for, and adherence to, its purposes and principles. We welcomed the accession of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and the Oriental Republic of Uruguay. We looked forward to the convening of the second iteration of the Conference of the HCPs to the TAC, to be held in August 2025 at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, as part of the preparations for the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the signing of TAC in 2026. We also looked forward to the adoption of an ASEAN-sponsored resolution by the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) commemorating the 50th anniversary of the TAC. 

We underscored the immense contribution of nuclear weapon-free zones to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and enhancing international peace and security. We reiterated our commitment to preserve the Southeast Asian region as a nuclear weapon-free zone and free of all other weapons of mass destruction as enshrined in the the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) and the ASEAN Charter. We stressed the importance of the full and effective implementation of the SEANWFZ Treaty, including through the Plan of Action to Strengthen the Implementation of the SEANWFZ Treaty (2023-2027).

We noted that the Executive Committee of the SEANWFZ Commission is continuing to explore the possibility of allowing individual Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) which are willing to sign and ratify the Protocol to the SEANWFZ Treaty without reservations and provide prior formal assurance of this commitment in writing to go ahead with the signing. We welcomed any NWS that are ready to do so. We reaffirmed our commitment to continuously engage all the NWS, including those with reservations, and intensify efforts of all parties to resolve all outstanding issues in accordance with the objectives and principles of the SEANWFZ Treaty. We encouraged our ASEAN experts to explore ways to bridge the differences, including the possibility of engaging with the NWS experts.

We reaffirmed our commitment to enhancing the profile of the SEANWFZ Treaty globally, including through engaging other nuclear weapon-free zones (NWFZs). In this connection, we welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN-sponsored biennial resolution on the SEANWFZ Treaty by the 78th Session of the UNGA on 4 December 2023, which reiterates the importance of the Treaty in contributing to international peace and security. We tasked the relevant officials to work towards the submission of the biennial SEANWFZ Resolution at the First Committee of the 80th Session of the UNGA, which will reaffirm the Treaty’s important contribution towards strengthening the security of States within the Zone and towards enhancing international peace and security.

We looked forward to the entry into force of the Addendum to the SEANWFZ Treaty and subsequent accession of Timor-Leste to the SEANWFZ Treaty by the 47th ASEAN Summit, which will further reinforce the region’s commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. To this end, we underscored the need to expedite our respective internal legal procedures to facilitate Timor-Leste’s timely accession. 

We continued to call on all States Parties to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to renew their commitment to its full and effective implementation, particularly Article VI, to redouble efforts to protect the credibility and integrity of the NPT and to rally towards a much-desired meaningful consensual outcome document at the 11th NPT Review Conference in 2026. In this regard, we supported the nomination of Viet Nam as the President of the 11th NPT Review Conference.

We expressed concern over the growing risks of nuclear danger and conflict, further expansion and modernisation of nuclear arsenals, the increasing salience of nuclear weapons in military and security doctrines, as well as the weakening of the disarmament, and non proliferation architecture. We stressed that progress on nuclear disarmament is urgently needed and reiterated the need for strengthening the commitment to a world free of nuclear weapons amidst the heightened geopolitical tension. We reiterated that the total elimination of nuclear weapons remain the only guarantee against their use and risk of their catastrophic humanitarian consequence. 

We reaffirmed our commitment to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC), recognising the necessity of multilateral negotiations and noting the absence of a verification mechanism, which continues to challenge the Convention’s effectiveness. We expressed our continued support for the BWC Working Group on Strengthening the Convention to strengthen the Convention in a comprehensive and balanced manner.

We reaffirmed our commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and recognised the importance of strengthening efforts to address current and future global challenges related to chemical security and chemical disarmament. We reaffirmed our full support to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to carry out its mandated work as the implementing body of CWC in a comprehensive, objective, and impartial manner, in complementarity with the work of the UN. 

We noted ongoing multilateral discussions on emerging issues related to outer space, and welcomed the decision of the UNGA RES 79/512 to establish an Open-ended Working Group on the Prevention of Arms Race in Outer Space in all its Aspects, which will help ensure the meaningful participation of States in shaping the institutions and mechanisms that promote peace and stability in outer space.

We expressed concerns about the possible negative consequences and impact of autonomous weapon systems on global security and regional and international stability, including the risk of an emerging arms race, lowering the threshold for conflict and proliferation, including to non-State actors. We underscored the importance of continued inclusive dialogue towards the development of a robust, future-proof, and legally-binding instrument to address these challenges.

We commended the ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy (ASEANTOM) for their continued efforts in enhancing cooperation among the nuclear regulatory bodies in the region and in strengthening practices and standards of nuclear safety, security, and safeguards guided by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards and international best practices. We looked forward to the successful conduct of the Nuclear Security Detection Exercise Malaysia-Indonesia-Thailand-Singapore 2025, in July 2025 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, which will strengthen the joint coordination and readiness to respond to nuclear security incidents and contribute to the development of ASEAN regional nuclear and radiological incident response mechanisms. We also looked forward to the convening of the 12th Annual Meeting of ASEANTOM in August 2025, in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. 

We acknowledged the vital role of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) and its subsidiary mechanisms in advancing ASEAN’s law enforcement cooperation and in spearheading cross-sectoral and cross-pillar coordination in addressing the multi-dimensional aspects of transnational crimes, particularly the growing threat of cybercrime and online scams and trafficking in persons (TIPs) in the region, including smuggling of migrants. We noted the efforts to align ASEAN and national efforts to prevent TIP, protect and support victims, enforce trafficking laws, and prosecute offenders under the Bohol TIP Work Plan 2.0 (2023-2028). We welcomed the Vientiane Declaration on Enhancing Law Enforcement Cooperation Against Online Job Scams, adopted by the 18th AMMTC in 2024, which underscored regional efforts to address the growing threat of online job scams and associated transnational crimes. We looked forward to greater synergy among and between ASEAN Member States to fully implement, where applicable, the UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocols, particularly on enhancing regional cooperation in combatting cybercrimes and other emerging threats.

We also welcomed the Review of Priority Areas of the AMMTC in view of the development of the renewed ASEAN Plan of Action in Combating Transnational Crime (2026-2035), and the inaugural meeting of the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Working Group on People Smuggling, held on 19 February 2025 in Penang, Malaysia, as a platform to strengthen regional coordination and capacity to combat people smuggling and related offences. We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Declaration on Countering People Smuggling in Southeast Asia by the 19th AMMTC, with discussions led by Malaysia as the SOMTC Voluntary Lead Shepherd for People Smuggling, along with the East Asia Summit (EAS) Leaders’ Statement on Combating Online Scams and Related Transnational Crime Issues. We welcomed the progress in the development of the ASEAN Border Management Cooperation Roadmap and looked forward to its finalisation and eventual adoption by the AMMTC.

We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Enhancing Cooperation in Locating and Arresting Criminal Fugitives at the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025.  

We welcomed Viet Nam’s hosting of the signing ceremony of the UN Convention against Cybercrime, the first global treaty on this matter, on 25-26 October 2025 in Ha Noi, which underscores ASEAN’s shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime. 

Recognising the final implementation phase of the ASEAN Plan of Action to Prevent and Counter the Rise of Radicalisation and Violent Extremism (PoA PCVE) 2018-2025 and the Bali Work Plan 2019-2025, we encouraged all relevant ASEAN Entities to intensify their efforts to fully implement the Work Plan, including through collaborations with ASEAN Dialogue Partners and other external parties, guided by the principles of ASEAN Centrality and mutual respect. We also looked forward to the development of the successor document of the PoA PCVE and its corresponding cross-sectoral work plan, building upon regional best practices, including prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration, and utilising the role of community and religious leaders in strengthening social resilience. We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders' Declaration on the Use of Sports for Preventing Violent Extremism at the 47th ASEAN Summit.

We welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Enhanced Cooperation Against Illicit Drug Trafficking and Precursor Chemicals, and reaffirmed our resolve to prevent and to combat illicit drug production, processing, trafficking, and abuse through a comprehensive and balanced approach, towards a drug-free ASEAN. We emphasised the importance of strengthening regional cooperation and developing holistic, integrated and balanced strategies, evidence-based best practices and standards on policy formulation and interventions to address both supply and demand reduction, to achieve a balance between treatment and rehabilitation approaches as well as the law enforcement approach in combatting drug crimes. We looked forward to the 9th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Drug Matters, to be held on 23-24 September 2025 in Manila, Philippines. We also commended the ASEAN Narcotics Cooperation Centre (ASEAN-NARCO) for its valuable publication of the ASEAN Drug Monitoring Report series. We further commended the efforts of the ASEAN Training Center for Preventive Drug Education (ATCPDE) based in the Philippines, in enhancing the capacities of ASEAN Member States in implementing drug abuse prevention programs.

We are concerned about the rise in non-traditional security issues, including transboundary challenges. We are committed to enhancing cooperation to address these security challenges, including issues related to food, water and energy security, and health security, through concrete and practical activities, as well as further strengthening cooperation with Dialogue Partners, and other external parties to effectively address transboundary challenges. 

We noted the advancements in regional and international connectivity and the increasing frequency and number of nationals of ASEAN Member States traveling outside the region, including in conflict-affected areas. In this regard, we reaffirmed our shared commitment to provide emergency assistance in line with the ASEAN Declaration on the Guidelines on Consular Assistance by ASEAN Member States Missions in Third Countries to Nationals of Other ASEAN Member States. We recognised the importance of further operationalising these Guidelines under the auspices of the ASEAN Directors-General of Immigration Departments and Heads of Consular Affairs Divisions of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs Meeting (DGICM). 

We welcomed the ASEAN National Security Advisors’ Meeting, held on 21-23 April 2025 in Malaysia which facilitated important discussions on regional and cross-cutting security issues of common concern requiring coordinated policy responses. 

We also welcomed the substantive progress of practical cooperation under the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus. We welcomed the adoption of the Joint Statement on Cooperation in the Field of Artificial Intelligence in the Defence Sector during the ADMM Retreat in February 2025 in Penang, Malaysia. We also noted the steps taken to operationalise the ASEAN Cyber Defence Network (ACDN), including the development of the ACDN Guidelines and Roadmap. We noted ongoing discussions to explore the relevant and potential roles of defence establishments and militaries in protecting and securing underwater infrastructure, such as submarine cables and pipelines, including potential principles on defence cooperation as well as future regional collaboration in this area to strengthen resilience and promote mutual understanding. 

We welcomed the inclusion of the ASEAN Militaries Ready Group on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Standard Operating Procedure as an Annex to Standard Operating Procedure for Regional Standby Arrangements and Coordination of Joint Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Operations Chapter VI, which was recently approved by the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management. We looked forward to the establishment of the ASEAN Military History Institutions Cooperation to enhance defence and military collaboration, building trust and promote unity and resilience in the face of the evolving security challenges. 

We welcomed the second iteration of the Observership Programme in the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Groups (ADMM-Plus EWGs), which now includes five Observers across five EWGs, namely Canada, France, Germany, Türkiye and the United Kingdom. We also noted the successful convening of the Maritime Cooperation and Connectivity Conference as the first project in the implementation of the AOIP from a defense perspective, which was co-hosted by Indonesia and Japan in December 2024, and the proposal by Malaysia and Australia to co-host a Maritime Cybersecurity Conference later this year, upon approval by the ADMM. 

We noted the UNGA Resolution A/RES/79/144 emphasising in the Preamble, the universal and unified character of the 1982 UNCLOS, and reaffirming that the Convention sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and seas must be carried out and is of strategic importance as the basis for national, regional and global action and cooperation in the marine and maritime sectors, and that its integrity needs to be maintained. 

In this regard, we welcomed India’s proposal to celebrate the year 2026 as the ‘ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation’ and agreed to submit it for the Leaders’ approval at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit in October 2025. 

We further recognised the need to maintain and strengthen stability in the maritime sphere in our region and underlined the importance of strengthening maritime cooperation and exploring new initiatives towards this end, as appropriate, including the convening of the 2nd AOIP Seminar Series: Submarine Cables, held on 13 February 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia. 

We reaffirmed the role of the ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF) and Expanded AMF (EAMF) as Track 1.5 platforms for promoting maritime cooperation through dialogue and consultations. Recognising the cross-cutting nature of maritime issues, we encouraged stronger coordination among ASEAN sectoral bodies and other relevant ASEAN mechanisms to avoid duplication. We emphasised the importance of ASEAN Centrality and an integrated and comprehensive approach to maritime cooperation. We are pleased with the progress of the implementation of the two projects under the EAMF, particularly on the nominations for the Pool of Experts, and future convening of the online consultation workshop to finalise the EAMF website. We welcomed the convening of the 14th AMF and 12th EAMF on 12-13 November 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR, and looked forward to the convening of the 15th AMF and 13th EAMF in Malaysia in 2025. 

We reaffirmed the importance of the ASEAN Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters (ASEAN MLAT) in strengthening ASEAN capacity and its Member States’ cooperation in combatting transnational crimes. We commended the ongoing efforts to conclude the ASEAN Extradition Treaty, and finalise the Model Template for Mutual Legal Assistance Requests for the ASEAN MLAT. 

We looked forward to the ASEAN Law Forum and the adoption of a Joint Statement on International Commercial Arbitration and Mediation Development by the ASEAN Law Ministers in August 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. This initiative reaffirms ASEAN’s commitment to strengthening arbitration and mediation frameworks in accordance with established international standards, fostering more robust and efficient legal cooperation which supports regional economic growth. 

We welcomed the progress of the work of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) in the promotion and protection of human rights and in the mainstreaming of human rights across all pillars of the ASEAN Community. We noted AICHR’s 2025 Annual Report and encouraged AICHR to continue its work through an inclusive and consultative approach whilst ensuring a purposeful and balanced discharge of its mandates. We also looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Declaration on the Right to a Safe, Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment. We also noted that AICHR is developing a proposed ASEAN Declaration on Promoting the Right to Development and Peace Towards Realising Inclusive and Sustainable Development. 

We welcomed the convening of the 6th ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue on 5 November 2024 in Jakarta, and looked forward to the convening of the 7th Dialogue later this year. We noted AICHR’s continuous efforts to improve cross-sectoral and cross-pillar collaboration and its engagement with relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, stakeholders and external partners to advance human rights cooperation. We encouraged AICHR to explore the way forward beyond the ASEAN Enabling Masterplan 2025: Mainstreaming the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We approved AICHR’s Five-Year Work Plan (2026-2030) and its Priority Programmes and Activities for 2026, aligned with the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. In this regard, we encouraged AICHR to further discuss emerging human rights issues and increase public awareness on the importance of promoting and protecting human rights, in accordance with the ASEAN Charter, the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration (AHRD), the Phnom Penh Statement on the Adoption of the AHRD, and the Terms of Reference (TOR) of AICHR.

We noted the initiatives of the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN-IPR) in advancing a culture of peace and moderation through collaboration with relevant ASEAN bodies and external partners. We noted ASEAN-IPR’s continued support for the ASEAN Women for Peace Registry (AWPR) and efforts to implement the ASEAN Leaders’ Joint Statement on Promoting Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) in ASEAN, and the Regional Plan of Action on WPS. We looked forward to the 2nd ASEAN WPS Summit in September 2025. We also welcomed the ASEAN-IPR Regional Conference on Cybersecurity and the Role of Information Technology in Fostering a Culture of Peace in ASEAN, held in February 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, which facilitated important regional dialogue on cybersecurity and peace. 

We looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN Women, Peace and Security Summit as a platform to promote the meaningful participation of women in security processes, in accordance with the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace and Security in ASEAN. We encouraged the continued implementation of the WPS and Youth, Peace, and Security agendas in ASEAN and ASEAN-led mechanisms. We looked forward to the adoption of the TOR on Enhancing Support Mechanism for ASEAN Women Peacekeepers (ESMAWP) by the ADMM and the convening of the 3rd Workshop on the ESMAWP in August 2025 in Cambodia.

We looked forward to the adoption of an ASEAN-Australia Joint Leaders' Statement on conflict prevention and crisis management during the 5th ASEAN-Australia Summit which reflects our commitment in maintaining and promoting peace, security and stability in the region, aligned with the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.

We commended the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) as a centre of excellence and recognised its essential role in addressing the humanitarian and socio-economic challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). We also welcomed ARMAC's close collaboration with ASEAN Member States' mine action authorities, relevant sectoral bodies, and international partners, which has enhanced technical cooperation, joint training, research, and knowledge-sharing, benefiting affected States and contributing to regional stability.

ASEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY

We noted that ASEAN continued to demonstrate economic resilience, achieving a growth rate of 4.8% in 2024, well above the global average, driven by strong manufacturing exports and increased public capital spending in key Member States. We are encouraged by forecasts indicating that this momentum is expected to continue into 2025 with a projected growth rate of 4.7%.

We noted the briefing during our Meeting by the ASEAN Geoeconomics Task Force (AGTF) on the evolving geoeconomic landscape and the challenges it poses to the region. In this regard, we further noted the preliminary recommendations by the AGTF, which called for ASEAN to deepen regional economic integration, fully implement trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, and leverage its Centrality to shape the emerging economic order. In this connection, we agreed to engage and coordinate with the ASEAN Economic Ministers, including by exploring the possibility of having a meeting with the ASEAN Economic Ministers at the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025.

We expressed concern over rising global trade tensions and growing uncertainties in the international economic landscape, particularly the unilateral actions relating to tariffs, which are counterproductive and risk exacerbating global economic fragmentation and pose complex challenges to ASEAN’s economic stability and growth. We underscored the importance of a predictable, transparent, inclusive, free, fair, sustainable and rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core. We reaffirmed our commitment to work constructively with all partners to this end. We noted the recent consultations between ASEAN Economic Ministers and our external partners such as Australia, China, Japan, and New Zealand on recent regional and global economic developments. We reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to enhancing regional resilience and competitiveness through the upgrading of the ASEAN Trade In Goods Agreement (ATIGA), ensuring the substantial conclusion of the negotiations of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) to support digital transformation, enhancing interoperability and unlocking new economic opportunities, advancing or upgrading Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with external partners and maximising the utilisation of the RCEP Agreement. We emphasised the need to diversify trade by expanding engagement with new and emerging partners, including region-to-region linkages such as with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

We welcomed the conclusion of the negotiations to upgrade the ATIGA, which will deepen and broaden the economic integration among ASEAN Member States. We looked forward to the signing of the Second Protocol to Amend the ATIGA at the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025. 

We further welcomed the development of the ASEAN Framework for Integrated Semiconductor Supply-Chains, aimed at enhancing regional prosperity, resilience, and sustainability by fostering complementary supply chains and strengthening the global competitiveness of ASEAN’s semiconductor industry. 

We looked forward to the finalisation and adoption of the ASEAN Sustainable Investment Guidelines this year, which will guide investment policy across ASEAN, and among other objectives, seek to advance the SDGs. 

We welcomed the collaboration between the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and ASEAN in the development of an ASEAN Intellectual Property Rights regime, particularly the ASEAN Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Action Plan 2026-2030. We welcomed the the WIPO Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) Regional Meeting for Strengthening the ASEAN TISC Network held in Siem Reap, Cambodia in February 2025. 

We welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN Centre of Excellence for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Green Transition, which will serve as a regional platform to coordinate capacity-building initiatives for MSMEs adopting green and sustainable practices. Recognising its focal role in guiding and energising ASEAN MSMEs towards circular and low-carbon economy, we encouraged continued collaboration with partners within and beyond the region to ensure the Centre’s long-term impact and sustainability. 

We welcomed the strategic thrusts and key principles of the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum Action Plan 2026-2030 to further promote more sustainable, resilient, inclusive and financially empowered ASEAN capital markets. We also welcomed the endorsement of the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Action Plan 2025-2028, which aims to expand the AIF’s lending capacity, support regional infrastructure development, and introduce innovative financing mechanisms to address cross-sectoral challenges, including to address ASEAN’s infrastructure development needs and regional connectivity. 

We commended ASEAN’s substantial progress in the adoption and promotion of regional cross-border payment connectivity, with 18 live cross-border payment linkages within the region and with economic partners such as Japan, India, and Hong Kong, as well as progress in developing a multilateral payment connectivity through Project Nexus. We encouraged sustained efforts to expand this network as a means to deepen regional financial integration and enhance inclusive economic growth.

We acknowledged the ongoing efforts to promote sustainable and efficient regional transport, particularly through the ASEAN Transport Ministers Meeting. We expressed support for the finalisation of the ASEAN Electric Vehicle (EV) Implementation Roadmap, which will guide the development of a robust and sustainable EV ecosystem. We also looked forward to the development of the ASEAN Sustainable Aviation Roadmap and the ASEAN Regional Strategy on Sustainable Ship Waste Management, aimed at advancing environmentally responsible aviation and maritime sectors.

We commended the conclusion of negotiations on the ASEAN-New Zealand Air Services Agreement (ANZ-ASA) and looked forward to its signing in 2025, with the aim of strengthening air connectivity between ASEAN and New Zealand, facilitating the smooth movement of people and goods, and supporting inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development.

We reaffirmed our commitment to enhance energy interconnection, including by accelerating the establishment of the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), as well as through the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline, ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement and Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS). We welcomed the ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting’s decision to realise the ASEAN Power Grid by 2045, as part of efforts to advance a secure, resilient, and interconnected low-carbon regional energy future. In this regard, we looked forward to the signing of the Enhanced Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on APG and the endorsement of the TOR of the Subsea Power Cables Development Framework by this year. We also welcomed the progress and contributions of the Lao PDR-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project (LTMS-PIP) as well as continued discussions on the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines Power Integration Project (BIMP-PIP).

We commended the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry for promoting sustainable development in the food, agriculture, and forestry sectors. We welcomed the development of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on the Vision for Food, Agriculture, and Forestry towards 2045, which reaffirms our shared commitment to a cooperative, sustainable, and resilient future. We looked forward to the development of the Framework for Cooperation in Food, Agriculture and Forestry Sector towards 2045 to operationalise the Leaders’ Declaration.

We acknowledged that sustainable food production and resilient agricultural practices, including sustainable production of vegetable oils, are essential to the attainment of the SDGs by 2030 and will contribute to regional and global efforts towards economic recovery, green growth, and food security. We looked forward to the convening of the Fourth Joint Working Group on Palm Oil between the European Union (EU) and Relevant ASEAN Member States to continue promoting mutual understanding on the sustainable production of vegetable oils and addressing the challenges in this sector in a holistic, transparent, and non-discriminatory manner. 

In response to the increasing global demand for halal food, we looked forward to strengthening regional coordination to promote halal food trade by harmonising national standards with regional and international benchmarks. We strongly encouraged active engagement by all relevant stakeholders, particularly the private sector, to elevate ASEAN’s halal food industry, including through the exchange and sharing of experience and best practices.

We welcomed the ongoing progress on the ASEAN Minerals Development Vision (AMDV) and its accompanying Declaration, aimed at positioning ASEAN as a prime destination for sustainable minerals investments reliable global supplier of strategic minerals and key enabler of global supply chain diversification.

We commended the ASEAN Tourism Ministers for enhancing regional cooperation and driving economic growth through strengthening ASEAN tourism competitiveness, ensuring sustainable and inclusive tourism development and advancing capacity building in the tourism sector. We looked forward to the development of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Quality Tourism, which will promote best practices, high-quality standards and digital transformation in the tourism sector. We also looked forward to the development of the ASEAN Tourism Outlook Towards 2030 as a strategic instrument to guide regional post-pandemic tourism recovery and long-term growth, positioning Southeast Asia as a diverse and attractive global destination. We also looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN-India Joint Leaders’ Statement on Sustainable Tourism at the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit.  

We welcomed the progress in the negotiations of the ASEAN DEFA and looked forward to its substantial conclusion by this year. We stressed the importance of building ASEAN Member States’ policy and institutional readiness to ensure the effective implementation of DEFA and to foster a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable digital economy in ASEAN.

We commended the ASEAN Digital Ministers (ADGMIN) for their active efforts in enhancing regional digital cooperation and driving economic growth through strengthened ASEAN digital competitiveness, sustainable and inclusive digital development, and the advancement of digital human capital. ADGMIN’s significant achievements, including the development of ASEAN 5G infrastructure, the promotion of robust digital data governance, and concerted actions to combat online scams, have been key milestones in advancing regional cooperation. We also welcomed key initiatives led by the ASEAN Working Group on Digital Data Governance and ASEAN Working Group on Submarine Cables, as well as the progress in shaping ASEAN’s digital future through the development of key regional frameworks, including the ASEAN Digital Master Plan 2026-2030 and the ASEAN Cybersecurity Strategic Plan 2026-2030. We recognised the growing threat of online scams and are committed to supporting and advancing initiatives under the ASEAN Working Group on Anti-Online Scam.

We welcomed the ASEAN Working Group on AI Governance’s (WG-AI) efforts to institutionalise principles of AI safety, ethics and governance, including through the development of the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics (2024) and the Expanded ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics – Generative AI (2025). We noted ongoing efforts to develop a Declaration on the Establishment of an ASEAN AI Safety Network (AI SAFE).

We welcomed the progress in operationalising the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), launched in October 2024 in Singapore, and its information sharing mechanism. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing regional cyber resilience through timely information sharing and the exchange of best practices among ASEAN Member States. We welcomed the endorsement of the ASEAN Norms Implementation Checklist, which will support capacity-building and responsible state behaviour in cyberspace, in alignment with ASEAN’s voluntary norms framework. We also commended the ongoing regional capacity-building work undertaken by the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre (AJCCBC) and the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (ASCCE) in building regional cybersecurity resilience to address emerging threats.

We welcomed the launch of the ASEAN Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ecosystem Foresight 2035 Report, which outlines a strategic roadmap to place ASEAN at the forefront of global scientific and technological advancements and identifies opportunities for innovation-driven growth.

We commended the establishment of the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite, a year-long accelerator programme supporting entrepreneurship and innovation, alongside the designation of 2025 as the ASEAN Startup Year. We also welcomed the launch of the Startup ASEAN Portal, which connects over 10,000 ASEAN startups with more than 500 investors, contributing to a regional innovation ecosystem valued at approximately USD131.2 billion.

We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Blue Economy Implementation Plan by the ASEAN Coordinating Task Force on the Blue Economy (ACTF-BE), during the 2nd Meeting of the ACTF-BE to be held in Malaysia later this year. We reaffirmed the importance of harnessing the full potential of the ASEAN Blue Economy Framework as a catalyst for sustainable development, inclusive growth, and regional cooperation. We welcomed the convening of the Workshop and Study Visit on Small-scale Marine Fisheries Data Collection for Fisheries Management in ASEAN on 14-17 July 2025 in Thailand.

We welcomed the full conclusion of the ASEAN-China FTA 3.0 Upgrade negotiations, as announced at the Special ASEAN Economic Ministers-Ministry of Commerce (AEM-MOFCOM) Consultation on 20 May 2025. We reaffirmed ASEAN's commitment to work towards the signing of the ACFTA 3.0 Upgrade Protocol at the sidelines of the 28th ASEAN-China Summit in October 2025, which will enable ASEAN and China to respond to emerging economic challenges and modernise trade practices.

We welcomed the ongoing efforts toward the substantial conclusion of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Review Negotiations in 2025. We recognised its potential to expand market access, and deepen economic linkages. We urged continued coordination to substantially conclude the AITIGA review in a timely manner, strengthening ASEAN-India ties and contributing to regional prosperity and sustainable growth.

We welcomed the entry into force of the Second Protocol to Amend the Agreement Establishing the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) on 21 April 2025 and looked forward to its full and effective ratification by all Parties to ensure that it benefits businesses and communities across the region.

We looked forward to commencing negotiations on the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Area (AKFTA) upgrade in 2026, to ensure that it remains relevant to businesses, modern, forward-looking, and responsive to regional and global developments.

ASEAN SOCIO-CULTURAL COMMUNITY

We commended ASCC’s efforts in strengthening data-driven platforms and evidence-based decision-making through the ASCC Database for Monitoring and Evaluation (ADME) System which supports strategic planning and the effective implementation of ASCC initiatives. 

We acknowledged the contributions of the ASCC Research and Development (R&D) Platforms Programme in promoting evidence-based policies and strengthening cross-sectoral decision-making. We welcomed the launch of the ASCC R&D Platform on the Care Economy which will examine the valuation of care work, the implications of demographic shifts, and the development of sustainable care policies.

We welcomed the substantive progress made in advancing the ASEAN Creative Economy, including the establishment of the ASEAN Creative Economy Sustainability Framework, which provides guidance for the development of inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cultural and creative industries across the region.

We emphasised the potential of cultural heritage to promote economic growth, social cohesion, cultural preservation and sustainability, and looked forward to the adoption of the Melaka Declaration on Cultural Heritage Value Creation. 

We acknowledged the commitment of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI), in transforming media’s role to strengthen ASEAN’s cohesion and mutual understanding, enhancing cooperation in combating fake news and disinformation, and promoting the safe and responsible use of social media platforms. In this regard, we welcomed the adoption of the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration to Reaffirm AMRI’s Commitment to Strategic Progress in Media and Information, and looked forward to the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN, as a collective effort to foster a safer and more inclusive online environment within ASEAN. In addition, we also noted the ongoing development of the Guidelines for Safe and Responsible Use of Social Media Platforms for ASEAN. We acknowledged the efforts of AMRI in developing a successor Work Plan for Information and Media (2026-2035), and the ASEAN Communication Master Plan III (ACMP III) (2026-2030) to align with the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.

We commended Malaysia for initiating the ASEAN Year of Skills 2025, a strategic effort to equip the ASEAN workforce with future-ready skills to adapt to changing labour markets and drive sustainable growth and to exchange best practices and lessons learnt on ASEAN and regional skills standards, training curriculum, skills assessment and certification, aligned with the ASEAN Guiding Principles for Quality Assurance and Recognition of Competency Certification Systems.

We welcomed ongoing efforts to expand AI-driven training and upskilling programmes for green jobs, including through the ASEAN Green Jobs Forum on 27-28 August 2025 in Malaysia, and looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Ministerial Statement and Action Plan for Green Jobs Promotion in the Labour Sector. We supported the provision of technical assistance on Al training for ASEAN Member States.

We reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of migrant workers throughout the entire migration cycle through the ASEAN Committee on the Implementation of the ASEAN Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers (ACMW), including through enhancing labour migration governance in ASEAN countries, fair and ethical recruitment and effective return and reintegration for migrant workers, while recognising the principle of shared and balanced responsibilities of the receiving and sending ASEAN Member States, with all efforts carried out in accordance with their national laws, regulations, and policies of respective ASEAN Member States. 

We recognised the significant impact of the migration and development nexus, on the well-being, livelihood and welfare of the present and future generations of the peoples who are at the center of the ASEAN Community. We acknowledged the need to address migration issues in order to achieve ASEAN goals, including through the relevant sectoral bodies and mechanisms, while respecting the national laws and policies of ASEAN Member States. 

We welcomed the convening of the Ministerial Roundtable on the Future of Higher Education in June 2025 and the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Higher Education: Towards an Inclusive, Sustainable and Prosperous ASEAN. This landmark document renews the commitment of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Higher Education 2015, with further emphasis on the importance of lifelong learning, innovative research, knowledge creation, and planetary health in enhancing ASEAN’s human capital competitiveness.

We expressed appreciation for the continued work of the ASEAN Health Ministers Meeting (AHMM) in advancing regional health development. We commended Malaysia’s prioritisation of a healthy ASEAN as a driver of sustainable economic growth, resilience, and regional prosperity.

We welcomed and looked forward to the effective implementation of the ASEAN Declaration of Commitment on ASEAN Drug Security and Self-Reliance (ADSSR) to strengthen our region’s vaccine, drug and diagnostic security and self-reliance. The ADSSR reflects high-level commitment and engagement with relevant ASEAN sectors, as well as Dialogue and Development partners. 

We also expressed support for the ASEAN Essential Diagnostics Lists Initiative (AEDLI) on the development of National EDLs, which aims to strengthen healthcare systems by ensuring that people have access to the diagnostic tests they need for timely and effective care.

We commended ASEAN’s efforts in addressing malnutrition through the ASEAN Strategic Framework and Action Plan on Nutrition 2018-2030, and noted progress in Multi-sectoral Approach to Sustain Food System for Healthy Diets in Ensuring Food and Nutrition Security in ASEAN, Establishment of Framework on Healthy Central Kitchen for Childcare Centres and Kindergartens in ASEAN, and Establishment of ASEAN Guidelines on Healthy Plate Concept. We also noted the progress of the ASEAN One Health Network, the 10-year milestone of the Project on Strengthening ASEAN Regional Capacity on Disaster Health Management; the strengthened ASEAN Risk Assessment Centre for Food Safety (ARAC); the launch of the Five-Year Strategic Plan (2025-2030) of the ASEAN Centre for Active Aging and Innovation, and the new intervention to expand ASEAN’s clinical trial market share for industry sponsored clinical trials.  

We noted the progress and urged the finalisation and conclusion of the Establishment Agreement of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED) to strengthen ASEAN’s regional capabilities in prevention, preparedness, detection, and response for public health emergencies and emerging diseases. We also appreciated the contributions of Dialogue Partners in the setting up and conduct of activities of ACPHEED and looked forward to our continued collaborations.

We welcomed the adoption of the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Agreement by the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly presided by the Philippines and look forward to the upcoming negotiation of its Annex on the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing System.

We welcomed ongoing efforts to operationalise the ASEAN Leaders Declaration on Strengthening Regional Biosafety and Biosecurity and encouraged collaboration with relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies and external partners.

We reaffirmed the ASEAN Leaders’ commitment to promoting the critical role of youth in socio-economic development and community-building, and emphasised the importance of strategic stakeholder engagement in advancing reskilling and upskilling, and the development of green and digital skills in both education and labour sectors.

We reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth through sports and youth development. We welcomed the ASEAN Ministers of Education Roundtable on Accelerating Innovative Strategies: Mitigating Out-of-School Children and Youth (OOSCY) Challenges in June 2025 and the adoption of the Langkawi Joint Statement on ASEAN OOSCY to advance equitable education, as well as the establishment of the ASEAN Sports Fund to support non-professional competitive sports, and sports-related education projects, as well as mentoring and capacity building programmes.

We expressed grave concern over the increasing impact of climate-related losses and reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to enhancing regional coordination on climate adaptation and mitigation towards a climate and disaster-resilient and low carbon economy region. We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Joint Statement on Climate Change to the 30th session of the Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP30), and the operationalisation of the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change in Brunei Darussalam.

We reaffirmed our collective commitment as outlined in the ASEAN Joint Statement on Climate Change to the UNFCCC COP29 and our unwavering dedication to jointly addressing the global challenge of climate change. We acknowledged the potential contributions of ASEAN Member States through emissions avoidance, emission reductions, emission removals, and carbon stock enhancement, contingent upon scientific and technological advancements, international cooperation, and enhanced support from developed countries, including relevant initiatives related to carbon markets by ASEAN Member States, to serve as models for integrated approach to sustainable development and climate resilience in the region.

We emphasised the need for a comprehensive, evidence-based, forward-looking and integrated regional approach to environmental challenges, including rising sea-levels and shifting crop harvests that threaten food and water security, among others, through halting and reversing biodiversity loss, preventing loss and damage from climate change impacts, enhancing climate mitigation and adaptation efforts including for coastal and marine ecosystem, ensuring the sustainable use and management of water resources and promoting sustainable development. We welcomed the progress in developing the Post-2025 ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment and the ASEAN Climate Change Strategic Action Plan through a gender-responsive and socially-inclusive communication strategy.

We commended the work of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) as well as the progress in advancing the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The ASEAN Biodiversity Plan will complement ASEAN Member States efforts in implementing their respective National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). We welcomed the rapid progress in operationalising the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, including the selection of the Philippines in 2024 as host country of the Board of the Fund.

We recognised the critical role of carbon markets in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mobilising climate finance, and supporting both mitigation and adaptation efforts. We reaffirmed our commitment to enhancing technical capacity and creating enabling environments for the development of carbon projects, while aligning carbon standards through regional cooperation.

We noted with serious concern that transboundary haze pollution has adverse impacts on the public health, well-being, and economies of ASEAN. We emphasised that transboundary haze pollution arising from land and forest fires remains a major concern in the region. We stressed the importance of remaining vigilant and welcomed the ongoing preventive efforts to minimise transboundary haze pollution during periods of drier and hotter weather. We reiterated our commitment to the full and effective implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, and welcomed continued work to implement the Second Roadmap on ASEAN Cooperation towards Transboundary Haze Pollution Control with Means of Implementation (Haze-free Roadmap) 2023-2030, Second ASEAN Peatland Management Strategy 2023-2030, and Chiang Rai 2017 Plan of Action for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control in the Mekong Sub-Region.

We also welcomed the progress towards the establishment of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control (ACC THPC) in Indonesia and resumption of the discussion to finalise the Host Country Agreement of the ACC THPC. The operationalisation of the ACC THPC, as well as the work of the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre, the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), the ACB, and the ASEAN Research and Training Centre for Space Technology and Applications (ARTSA), in accordance with their respective mandates under the Establishment Agreement of the ACC THPC, will facilitate effective implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution and further reaffirm ASEAN’s commitment in enhancing regional cooperation and coordination on transboundary haze pollution in the ASEAN region.

We welcomed the progress towards finalising the Implementation Plan of the ASEAN Investment Framework for Haze-Free Sustainable Land Management, which aims to mobilise finance, investment and resources from ASEAN stakeholders and partners to promote sustainable land and forest management and achieve a haze-free ASEAN by 2030.

We looked forward to the ASEAN Declaration on Future-Ready Public Service by the ASEAN Cooperation on Civil Service Matters (ACCSM) Heads of Civil Service to develop a resilient, innovative and ethical public service in ASEAN through digital transformation, inclusive governance, merit-based practices, regional collaboration, and people-centric approaches that meet citizens’ evolving needs.

We welcomed the finalisation of the Mid-Term Review of the ASEAN Enabling Masterplan 2025: Mainstreaming the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and looked forward to its recommendations for mainstreaming the rights of persons with disabilities.

We commended ASEAN’s continued progress in promoting gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, in line with ASEAN’s frameworks for a gender-responsive ASEAN Community across all three pillars.

We reaffirmed our commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment and the care economy agenda. We looked forward to the finalisation of the Guidance Note to Implement the ASEAN Declaration on Strengthening the Care Economy and Fostering Resilience Towards the Post-2025 ASEAN Community.

We expressed concern over the growing risks faced by children online and offline, and commended the increasing cross-sectoral cooperation to strengthen child protection and prevent online exploitation and abuse. 

We welcomed the convening of the 14th ASEAN Ministers Meeting on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication in advancing rural development, and their efforts in eradicating poverty, and underscored the importance of rural-urban linkages and the contributions of rural women and youth in achieving these goals. Acknowledging the persistent development gap between rural and urban areas, we underscored the importance of leveraging regional cooperation to increase investment in basic services and local economies. In this regard, we welcomed the continued operationalisation of the ASEAN Villages Network in spurring inclusive community-led growth, including through rural tourism, smart village initiatives, and the One Village One Product (OVOP). 

We reaffirmed our commitment to strengthening ASEAN’s disaster resilience amidst a rapidly evolving risk landscape. We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Ministerial Statement on the 20 Years of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER): ASEAN Vision for Global Leadership in Disaster Resilience, which affirms ASEAN’s commitment to working closely with the international community on global risk reduction. We welcomed the progress of the development of the AADMER Work Programme 2026-2030. 

We welcomed ASEAN’s participation at the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) 2025 held in Geneva, Switzerland, and the issuance of its Joint Statement, demonstrating ASEAN’s regional leadership in advancing regional disaster resilience through the implementation of AADMER and its Work Programmes. We took note of the convening of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on DRR held in Manila in October 2024. 

We reaffirmed the importance of promoting a whole-of-ASEAN approach to disaster management and reiterated our commitment to the implementation of the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration on the Strategic and Holistic Initiative to Link ASEAN Responses to Emergencies and Disaster (ASEAN SHIELD), and the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Sustainable Resilience. 

We emphasised the importance of enhancing ASEAN’s capacity to implement the ASEAN Declaration on One ASEAN One Response: ASEAN Responding to Disasters as One within and outside the region. We commended the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre)’s continuous work in strengthening its information and communication technology system, ASEAN Disaster Information Network, and Disaster Monitoring and Response System. We expressed appreciation for the strong commitment and support of ASEAN Member States and ASEAN partners to the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) and the ASEAN Emergency Response Assessment Team (ASEAN-ERAT). 

We further commended ASEAN’s collective response and the swift action through the AHA Centre in providing assistance after the earthquake in Myanmar on 28 March 2025, which resulted in significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction in Myanmar and Thailand. We also recognised the vital role of the AHA Centre in coordinating humanitarian assistance, supporting and facilitating relief operations, and ensuring timely and effective humanitarian response to the affected communities. We welcomed the joint visit to Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, by the Foreign Ministers of Malaysia and Thailand on 5 April 2025 to assess immediate humanitarian needs and support the delivery of humanitarian relief to those affected by the earthquake. We reaffirmed our continued support to Myanmar’s recovery efforts in the affected communities, including through a possible ASEAN-led coordination mechanism with the AHA Centre as coordinator. We recognised the role of the Secretary-General of ASEAN as the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Coordinator (SG-AHAC), in accordance with the current Terms of Reference. 

We reaffirmed ASEAN’s continued support for Myanmar’s efforts to bring peace, stability, and the rule of law, promote harmony and reconciliation among the various communities, as well as ensure sustainable and equitable development in Rakhine State. We emphasised the importance of and reiterated our continued support for Myanmar’s commitment to ensuring safety and security for all communities in Rakhine State as effectively as possible and facilitating the voluntary return of displaced persons in a safe, secure, and dignified manner. We welcomed the continued engagement and cooperation between Myanmar and Bangladesh, including bilateral repatriation intiatives for the verified displaced persons from Rakhine State. We looked forward to ASEAN’s continued facilitation of the repatriation process through the implementation of projects as the follow-up to the recommendations of the Preliminary Needs Assessment. We also looked forward to the Comprehensive Needs Assessment when conditions allow and encouraged the Secretary-General of ASEAN to continue identifying possible areas for ASEAN to effectively facilitate the repatriation process. 

ASEAN EXTERNAL RELATIONS  

We underscored the importance of strengthening ASEAN unity and Centrality, while remaining actively engaged, outward-looking, inclusive and non-discriminatory in our relations with external partners. This includes utilising ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the ASEAN Plus One, ASEAN Plus Three (APT), East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM-Plus to foster mutual trust and confidence. We reaffirmed our commitment to reinforcing an open, transparent, resilient, inclusive, and rules-based regional architecture that upholds international law, with ASEAN at the centre. We emphasised the need to cultivate a culture of dialogue and cooperation, instead of rivalry, enhancing mutual trust and confidence, and respect for international law, to promote peace, stability, and prosperous development. 

We are committed to advancing an outward-looking ASEAN Community that supports sustainable growth and strengthens regional resilience through inclusive cooperation and collaboration with external partners. We noted the increasing interest from countries and regional organisations outside the region in developing stronger relations and substantive, meaningful and mutually beneficial cooperation with ASEAN, including applications for formal partnerships with ASEAN, which could contribute to ASEAN Community-building, regional integration and development cooperation efforts. We agreed on the importance of expanding engagement with new and potential external partners based on shared interest, mutual benefit, and constructive engagement, including on the AOIP four priority areas, in support of and to advance the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. We underscored ASEAN’s rising global relevance and its unique convening power in an emerging multipolar global architecture. 

We encouraged the support of all our partners to the AOIP to promote and mainstream the implementation of concrete AOIP projects and activities, including through workstreams under the AOIP’s four priority areas, as well as explore further cooperation through relevant ASEAN-led mechanisms, centres and institutions. In this regard, we also looked forward to the adoption of the Joint Statement on Further Promotion and Implementation of the AOIP at the 28th ASEAN-Japan Summit.  

We recalled the decision of the 54th AMM to undertake a comprehensive review of the moratorium on new dialogue partnerships and advance ASEAN’s relations with external parties and adopted the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Decision on Enhancing ASEAN Relations with External Parties. 

We welcomed the increased engagement between the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN (CPR) and ASEAN’s external partners, including through the 96 Non-ASEAN Ambassadors accredited to ASEAN. We also acknowledged the vital role played by the 55 ASEAN Committees in Third Countries and International Organisations in promoting ASEAN’s interests and advancing partnerships globally. 

We looked forward to the 5th ASEAN-Australia Summit, the 28th ASEAN-China Summit, the 22nd ASEAN-India Summit, the 28th ASEAN-Japan Summit, the 26th ASEAN-Republic of Korea (ROK) Summit, and the 13th ASEAN-United States Summit, to be held during the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in October 2025, in Malaysia.

We underscored that the establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with ASEAN should be meaningful, substantive and mutually beneficial. We welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN-ROK CSP at the 25th ASEAN-ROK Summit to Commemorate the 35th Anniversary of Dialogue Relations in October 2024 and reaffirmed our commitment to working closely with the ROK to implement the CSP. We further welcomed the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-New Zealand Dialogue Relations in 2025 and looked forward to the establishment of the ASEAN-New Zealand CSP and the adoption of the Joint Vision Statement at the ASEAN-New Zealand Commemorative Summit to be held during the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.

We noted with satisfaction the significant progress in ASEAN’s relations with our Dialogue Partners, Sectoral Dialogue Partners, and Development Partners through the existing frameworks, Plans of Action (POAs), Practical Cooperation Areas (PCAs) and development cooperation programmes. These instruments continue to guide our relations and cooperation with our partners in support of ASEAN Community-building and the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, while enabling ASEAN to respond proactively to regional and global challenges. We looked forward to the adoption and implementation of successor POAs for the period of 2026 to 2030 between ASEAN and Canada, China, India, New Zealand, the ROK, Russia, and the UN. We also looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN-United States Leaders’ Joint Vision Statement to Promote Stronger, Safer and More Prosperous ASEAN and America at the 13th ASEAN-United States Summit. 

We welcomed the encouraging progress made in ASEAN’s Sectoral Dialogue Partnerships with Brazil, Morocco, Norway, Pakistan, South Africa, Switzerland, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as Development Partnerships with Chile, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Peru. We also looked forward to the convening of individual trilateral meetings between the ASEAN Chair, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, and Brazil, Norway, Switzerland, and Türkiye during the 58th AMM/PMCs. 

We welcomed the progress in the implementation of the PCAs between ASEAN and Brazil, Morocco, Pakistan, South Africa, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates, respectively, for the period of 2024-2028. We noted the extension of the timeframe of the PCA between ASEAN and Chile from 2021-2025 to 2021-2026. We also welcomed the adoption of the PCAs between ASEAN and the Netherlands as well as with Peru for the period 2025-2029. We were pleased to note that 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN-Norway Sectoral Dialogue Partnership, and looked forward to the adoption of the successor PCA for the period of 2026-2030 between ASEAN and Norway later this year. 

We reaffirmed the importance of multilateralism and international cooperation, and emphasised the value of ASEAN’s partnerships with regional and international organisations including the UN. These partnerships are vital in addressing global challenges, advancing shared goals, and promoting sustainable development. In this regard, we looked forward to the continued high-level engagement between ASEAN and the UN, including the 15th ASEAN-UN Summit during the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. We congratulated the United Nations on its 80th founding anniversary. We reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to act in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter, and its purposes and principles. 

We welcomed the progress in implementing the ASEAN-UN POA (2021-2025) and looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN-UN POA (2026-2030). We looked forward to the submission of the Complementarities Initiative 2.0 to the 15th ASEAN-UN Summit for notation. 

We welcomed the convening of the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit and the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit in May 2025 at the margins of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. We looked forward to enhancing our relations with the GCC and China, by strengthening cooperation on supply chain resilience, and the digital and green economies, enhancing economic integration, and supporting sustainable growth and energy transition efforts in the region in response to global challenges and exploring cooperation in the field of halal food. 

We also welcomed the convening of the 16th ASEAN-Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) Ministerial Meeting and the 7th ASEAN-Pacific Alliance (PA) Ministerial Meeting in September 2024 and encouraged the effective implementation of the ASEAN-ECO Framework of Cooperation between ASEAN and ECO (2024-2028) and ASEAN-PA Plan of Action 2020-2025. 

We expressed our serious disappointment with the continued failure of the Non- Aligned Movement (NAM) to reflect substantive and factual updates on the paragraphs relating to the South China Sea in NAM key outcome documents. We called on all NAM Members to respect ASEAN, and ASEAN’s unity and Centrality, especially on issues which directly affect peace and prosperity in its own immediate region. We also called on all NAM Members to uphold their commitment to the main goals and objectives of NAM as enshrined in the Bandung Principles and to firmly uphold the principles of non-alignment while promoting peace, friendship, solidarity, and cooperation among ourselves. 

We reaffirmed the importance of the APT cooperation framework in promoting peace, stability, prosperity, and regional cooperation in East Asian region, with ASEAN as the driving force. We welcomed the substantive progress in the implementation of the APT Cooperation Work Plan (2023-2027) and the continued efforts to further strengthen APT mechanisms including the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), the Asian Bond Markets Initiative (ABMI), the Disaster Risk Financing (DRF) and the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), and ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR). We reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen APT cooperation, including through tangible cooperation on the AOIP’s four priority areas to contribute to greater regional sustainability and resilience, in support of the implementation of the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future. 

We reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthening the EAS as a premier Leaders-led forum for dialogue and cooperation on broad strategic, political, and economic issues of common interest and concern with the aim of promoting peace, stability, and economic prosperity in the region, with ASEAN as the driving force. In this regard, we welcomed the 20th anniversary of the EAS and looked forward to the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the 20th Anniversary of the EAS, which reaffirms EAS’ strategic value and relevance, as well as its responsiveness to developments in an evolving global landscape. We further reaffirmed our shared commitments and principles as reflected in the 2011 Declaration on the EAS on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations (Bali Principles). 

We noted the progress in the implementation of the EAS POA 2024-2028, and looked forward to deepening practical cooperation in EAS streams of work to ensure coordination, cooperation and implementation of the EAS Leaders’ statements, declarations, decisions, and initiatives, with a view to strengthening ASEAN external relations and ASEAN-led regional architecture and ensuring that all engagements are ASEAN-driven, relevant, strategic, mutually beneficial, and responsive to current and emerging challenges. 

We expressed our commitment to advancing common goals and interests among EAS participating countries while underscoring the importance of ASEAN unity and Centrality in guiding cooperation under the EAS. We recognised the need to strengthen EAS collaboration, including on the EAS streams of work and the AOIP’s four priority areas to address new and emerging challenges and promote regional resilience and sustainability, as well as intensify regular engagements between the CPR and the non-ASEAN Ambassadors of EAS Participating Countries in Jakarta. In this regard, we looked forward to the adoption of thematic EAS Statements on Promoting Localisation in Anticipatory Action for Disaster Preparedness and Response, Combating Online Scams and Related Transnational Crime Issues, Strengthening EAS Cultural Cooperation, Strengthening Energy Cooperation, and Inclusive Digital Economy at the 20th EAS. 

We reaffirmed the importance of the ARF as the leading regional security forum in the Asia-Pacific region for fostering constructive dialogue and cooperation among its Participants on political and security issues and emerging challenges of common interest and concern, with ASEAN as the primary driving force. In the face of increasingly complex challenges in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, we further encouraged ARF Participants to continue efforts in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of its cooperation to move forward from confidence building measures and preventive diplomacy in adherence to the principles stipulated in the ARF Preventive Diplomacy Work Plan in order for the ARF to progress to Stage II, Development of Preventive Diplomacy, of the three-stage process in accordance with the 1995 ARF Concept Paper. 

We underscored the need to undertake a holistic and comprehensive approach to revitalise the ARF and maintain its relevance in the evolving regional security architecture as well as its ability to address emerging political and security challenges while fostering a more substantive, constructive, and interactive dialogue among the Participants. In this regard, we welcomed the ongoing discussions among ASEAN Member States on revitalising the ARF to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. We also noted the progress in the implementation of the Ha Noi Plan of Action II (2020-2025) and agreed to extend the HPOA II until 31 December 2025 and commence the development of a new ARF POA, to be adopted in 2026. 

We are committed to enhancing our engagement with other potential partners in the wider Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions. We looked forward to forging cooperation between ASEAN and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and between ASEAN and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). We tasked the ASEAN Secretariat to work with the respective PIF and IORA secretariats to develop Cooperation Plan in accordance with the MoUs signed between ASEAN and IORA and ASEAN and PIF on 4 September 2023.

REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

We recognised the strategic importance of our region for ensuring peace, security, stability, and prosperity, as well as for those of our external partners. ASEAN and ASEAN-led mechanisms remain inclusive, and open platforms that facilitate constructive dialogue and tangible cooperation, contributing to the evolving regional architecture in line with the ASEAN Charter and the AOIP.

Situation in the South China Sea 

We discussed the situation in the South China Sea, during which concerns were expressed by some Ministers on the land reclamations, activities, serious incidents in the area, including actions that put the safety of all persons at risk, damage to the marine environment, which have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions, and may undermine peace, security, and stability in the region. We reaffirmed the need to enhance mutual trust and confidence, exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability and avoid actions that may further complicate the situation. We further reaffirmed the need to pursue peaceful resolution of disputes, in accordance with the universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS. We emphasised the importance of non-militarisation and self-restraint in the conduct of all activities by claimants and all other states, including those mentioned in the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) that could further complicate the situation and escalate tensions in the South China Sea.

We reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, stability, safety, and freedom of navigation in and overflight above the South China Sea and recognised the benefits of having the South China Sea as a sea of peace, stability, prosperity, and sustainable development. In this regard, we underscored the importance of the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety. We welcomed the progress achieved so far in the ongoing negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC), notably the completion of the third reading of the Single Draft COC Negotiating Text (SDNT) and encouraged continued positive momentum on the Draft COC. In line with the Guidelines for Accelerating the Early Conclusion of an Effective and Substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, we looked forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive COC that is in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS. We emphasised the need to maintain and promote an environment conducive to the COC negotiations, including the situation in the South China Sea, and thus welcomed practical measures that could reduce tensions and the risk of accidents, misunderstandings, and miscalculation. We stressed the importance of undertaking confidence building and preventive measures to enhance, among others, trust and confidence amongst parties, and we reaffirmed the importance of upholding international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.

Developments in Myanmar 

We expressed our deep concern over the escalation of conflicts and humanitarian situation in Myanmar, and encouraged progress on the implementation of the ASEAN Leaders’ Five-Point Consensus (5PC). We reaffirmed our united position that the 5PC remains our main reference to address the political crisis in Myanmar and further reaffirmed the relevant Leaders’ decisions. We denounced the continued acts of violence against civilians and public facilities and urged all parties involved to take concrete action to immediately halt indiscriminate violence, exercise utmost restraint, ensure the protection and safety of all civilians and civilian infrastructures, and create a conducive environment for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and inclusive national dialogue. In this regard, we reaffirmed the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on an Extended and Expanded Ceasefire in Myanmar. We also welcomed the continued progress in the provision of humanitarian assistance to Myanmar by the AHA Centre in support of Point 4 of the ASEAN Leaders’ 5PC. 

We commended the dedicated efforts of H.E. Tan Sri Othman Hashim as the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair on Myanmar, since his appointment in January 2025. In carrying out his mandate, the Special Envoy has actively engaged a wide and diverse range of Myanmar stakeholders. The Special Envoy has also engaged ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Dialogue Partners, Myanmar neighbouring countries, international and regional partners, civil society organisations, humanitarian actors, and think tanks towards finding an inclusive and sustainable resolution to the crisis. This inclusive engagement reflects ASEAN’s commitment to collaborative efforts in addressing the complex challenges in Myanmar. We will conduct our comprehensive review of the 5PC implementation and submit our recommendations to the 47th ASEAN Summit. We also agreed to task our Senior Officials to explore new strategies to ensure continuity in the role of the ASEAN Special Envoy on Myanmar.

Developments in the Korean Peninsula 

We expressed concern over the recent developments in the Korean Peninsula and stressed the importance of resuming peaceful dialogue among all concerned parties in order to realise lasting peace and stability in a denuclearised Korean Peninsula. We expressed grave concern over the recent surge in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) intercontinental ballistic missile testing and ballistic missile launches and the increased tension in the Korean Peninsula, which are a worrisome development that threatens peace and stability in the region. We called on the DPRK to comply fully with all relevant UNSC Resolutions and called for peaceful dialogue among the concerned parties, and continue working towards the realisation of lasting peace, and stability in a denuclearised Korean Peninsula. We called for the full implementation of all relevant UNSC Resolutions and noted international efforts to bring about the complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner. Diplomatic efforts, including the creation of a conducive environment for peaceful dialogue among all concerned parties should remain a priority. We reiterated our readiness to play a constructive role, including through utilising ASEAN-led platforms such as the ARF in promoting a conducive atmosphere for peaceful dialogue amongst the concerned parties.

Situation in Ukraine

With regard to Ukraine, as for all nations, we continued to reaffirm our respect for sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity. We reiterated our call for compliance with the UN Charter and international law. We underlined the importance of an immediate cessation of hostilities and the serious engagement in a genuine dialogue for the peaceful resolution of the conflict. We supported the efforts of the UN Secretary-General in the search for a peaceful solution, and in this regard noted efforts to discuss the way forward for a ceasefire in Ukraine. We also called for the facilitation of rapid, safe, and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for those in need in Ukraine, and for the protection of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and persons in vulnerable situations.

Situation in the Middle East

We expressed great concern over the continued tension in the Middle East and called on all parties concerned to exercise self-restraint, avoid acts that may aggravate the situation, and resolve differences through diplomacy and dialogue in the interest of maintaining peace and stability in the region. 

We expressed grave concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has been exacerbated following the 7 October 2023 attacks and the resumption of hostilities on 18 March 2025. We condemned all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, which have resulted in the alarming number of casualties, particularly among women and children, the continued restricted access to humanitarian aid, relief supplies and other basic needs, leading to the further deterioration of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We urged all relevant parties to accept the ceasefire proposal as outlined in paragraph 2 of UNSC Resolution 2735. We called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, especially women, children, the sick and the elderly. We underscored the importance of release from any arbitrary detention. We commended the efforts of various ASEAN Member States in providing humanitarian assistance to Gaza, and urged all ASEAN Member States and our external partners to continue providing and facilitating such assistance for Gaza. We reaffirmed our support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in the execution of its mandate. We called for the full resumption of rapid, safe, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access to all those in need, including through increased capacity at border crossings, including by sea. We called on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and to abide by international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

We reaffirmed our longstanding support for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self-determination, and to their homeland. In this regard, we urged all parties concerned to work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict with a view to realising the two-State solution in accordance with international law and the relevant UNSC and UNGA resolutions, including UNGA resolution A/RES/ES-10/23 on the Admission of New Members to the UN dated 10 May 2024, and UNGA resolution A/RES/ES-10/27 on protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations dated 12 June 2025, which we all voted in favour. We took note, and some of us underlined the importance of, the order on provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on 26 January 2024. We acknowledged the Advisory Opinion of the ICJ on 19 July 2024, which is of the opinion, among others, that the United Nations, and especially the General Assembly, which requested this opinion, and the Security Council, should consider the precise modalities and further action required to bring to an end as rapidly as possible the unlawful presence of the State of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. In this context, we reaffirmed the importance of upholding international law.  

We expressed concern over the escalation of tensions in the Middle East since 13 June 2025, and welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Iran on 24 June 2025. We urged all parties to respect the ceasefire and avoid further escalation of this conflict. We reaffirmed the obligation of all States to resolve their differences through peaceful means and to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, in line with international law, including the United Nations (UN) Charter. We further reiterated the obligations to protect civilians and civilian infrastructures in armed conflicts consistent with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions. We supported ongoing efforts, including those led by the UN, aimed at de-escalating tensions and facilitating the resumption of constructive engagement among parties involved.

59th ASEAN FOREIGN MINISTERS’ MEETING

We looked forward to the convening of the 59th AMM, Post-Ministerial Conferences, 27th APT Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, 16th EAS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and 33rd ARF in the Philippines, in 2026. 

SOURCE: Communication & Public Diplomacy Division,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

--BERNAMA