The ASEAN flag is placed alongside the flags of its member countries ahead of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Langkawi, Malaysia.

Malaysia takes the lead in ASEAN while balancing expectations regarding Myanmar and the South China Sea

Southeast Asian foreign ministers convened for a private retreat in Malaysia on Sunday, marking the country’s inaugural meeting as the chair of the ASEAN regional bloc. This gathering occurs against the backdrop of a worsening civil conflict in Myanmar and ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. As Malaysia assumes the rotating chairmanship of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the bloc faces challenges … Continue reading Malaysia takes the lead in ASEAN while balancing expectations regarding Myanmar and the South China Sea

Philippines urges ASEAN and China to address complex issues regarding the South China Sea code

The ASEAN regional bloc and China need to make progress on the long-standing code of conduct for the South China Sea by addressing critical “milestone issues,” such as its scope and the potential for it to be legally binding, according to the Philippines‘ foreign minister on Saturday. The South China Sea continues to be a point of contention between China and its neighboring countries, including … Continue reading Philippines urges ASEAN and China to address complex issues regarding the South China Sea code

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono

Indonesia will boost defense collaborations and strengthen maritime security, says a top diplomat

Indonesia plans to enhance its current defense partnerships and intensify its approach to strategic matters affecting its sovereignty, particularly in areas such as maritime security and the protection of sea routes and fisheries, as stated by its foreign minister on Friday. Sugiono, who is known by a single name, emphasized that Indonesia will persist in advocating for the establishment of a code of conduct between … Continue reading Indonesia will boost defense collaborations and strengthen maritime security, says a top diplomat

Indonesia remains committed to pursuing BRICS membership despite potential tariff threats from Trump

Indonesia is proceeding with cautious determination to join BRICS, despite a warning from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump regarding potential tariff increases on members of the Russia- and China-led coalition if it continues to pursue its aim of creating an alternative to the U.S. dollar in global trade. During a parliamentary meeting this month with the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, lawmakers voiced their apprehensions about Trump’s threats. … Continue reading Indonesia remains committed to pursuing BRICS membership despite potential tariff threats from Trump

ASEAN leaders urged for a consensus on a code of conduct for the South China Sea

Southeast Asian leaders urged on Sunday for a prompt consensus on a code of conduct for the South China Sea, emphasizing adherence to international law. They also called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Myanmar and advocated for inclusive peace negotiations to resolve the ongoing civil conflict. The statement from the ASEAN chairman reflects the agreement reached during meetings that concluded on Friday among … Continue reading ASEAN leaders urged for a consensus on a code of conduct for the South China Sea