ASEAN foreign ministers convened in Manila on Wednesday to discuss the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, with a focus on ensuring the free flow of goods and people through key maritime corridors. The meeting comes amid heightened concerns over the potential disruption of critical shipping lanes due to the ongoing conflict, which has raised fears of increased military activity in the region. Delegates emphasized the need for continued dialogue and cooperation to safeguard regional stability and ensure uninterrupted access to vital sea routes. The discussions were framed within the broader context of rising geopolitical instability, with several delegates highlighting the importance of maintaining open straits as a cornerstone of regional security. While the U.S.-Iran conflict remains the immediate concern, participants acknowledged the wider implications for global trade and energy supplies. The meeting was held under the auspices of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which continues to play a central role in fostering regional unity and addressing shared challenges. Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono played a prominent role in the deliberations, stressing the necessity of reinforcing ASEAN’s strategic partnerships, particularly with China. He called for a stronger economic collaboration between ASEAN and China to bolster regional resilience and stability amid growing global uncertainties. According to official figures, ASEAN-China trade amounted to $772.4 billion in 2024, representing roughly one-fifth of the bloc’s total trade volume. Sugiono underscored that these figures reflect more than mere statistics, they represent livelihoods, market access, and the well-being of millions of people. In addition to economic ties, Sugiono highlighted the importance of enhancing maritime cooperation, noting that regional waters are essential for trade, connectivity, and energy and food security. He reiterated Indonesia’s longstanding push for the finalization of a binding Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, grounded in international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). A robust COC, he argued, would not only promote economic growth but also serve as a foundation for lasting regional peace. Sugiono also emphasized the significance of ASEAN centrality and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) as guiding principles for regional cooperation. These frameworks, he noted, should help navigate the complexities of increasing geopolitical competition while upholding transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to established rules. The minister further pointed out that the ASEAN-China relationship, now entering its 35th year of dialogue partnership and celebrating its fifth anniversary as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, must continue to evolve toward greater mutual benefit and long-term stability. During the meeting, ASEAN leaders also addressed the impact of developments in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict, and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional energy cooperation. They expressed solidarity with efforts aimed at securing energy supplies and ensuring that disruptions in global markets do not compromise the region’s economic progress. The group also endorsed a joint statement calling for collective action to enhance energy security and mitigate the risks posed by external conflicts. Looking ahead, delegates agreed that sustained diplomatic engagement and multilateral cooperation will be crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of international relations. With the U.S.-Iran situation remaining volatile and other global uncertainties persisting, ASEAN’s role in promoting dialogue and stability is likely to grow even more pronounced in the coming months. The organization remains determined to uphold its vision of a secure, prosperous, and cooperative Southeast Asia.
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