ASEAN Summits Prioritize Connectivity and Resilience Amid Disruptions
Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, on Tuesday for the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits. Under the overarching theme of “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” the summits aim to strengthen ASEAN as a cohesive and resilient community amid regional challenges.
Experts highlight that this year’s summits focus on regional development despite ongoing disputes, including those in the South China Sea. ASEAN member states are increasingly cautious of external powers that may provoke conflicts or introduce divisive ideas in the region.
Embracing Technological Innovation
According to Peng Nian, director of the Hong Kong Research Center for Asian Studies, ASEAN is keen to leverage technological innovation to advance its digitalization initiatives. “There is hope that the summits will promote cooperation with countries such as China and Japan to bolster these efforts,” Peng noted.
Strengthening Regional Connectivity
Enhanced connectivity is another key focus, as improved ties with neighboring nations like China, Japan, and South Korea can stimulate trade and attract investment to the region. “Strengthening connections with these countries will bring significant economic benefits to ASEAN,” Peng added.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s Participation
Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Vientiane on Wednesday to attend the leaders’ meeting. He will pay an official visit to Laos and attend the 27th China-ASEAN Summit, the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit, and the 19th East Asia Summit from October 9 to 12. Following his visit to Laos, Premier Li will travel to Vietnam.
At a press conference, a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed China’s commitment to collaborating with ASEAN and other regional nations to build consensus, deepen mutual trust, and strengthen cooperation. “China is eager to inject new momentum into peace, stability, and development in the region and beyond,” the spokesperson stated.
Navigating Regional Challenges
Chen Xiangmiao, director of the World Navy Research Center at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, cautioned that Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may attempt to spotlight the South China Sea issue during the summits. “However, regional countries are likely to prioritize de-escalation rather than exacerbate tensions,” Chen emphasized.
He added that the focus of this year’s ASEAN summits is on cooperation and development among member states. “If any country seeks to amplify contentious issues, it risks overshadowing other significant topics on the agenda,” Chen said.
Concerns Over External Influence
Japan’s new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, has proposed the concept of an “Asian NATO.” Observers warn that such narratives may incite tensions and damage Southeast Asia’s prosperity. ASEAN members are generally resistant to these distractions, as evidenced by a recent editorial published by Indonesia’s largest English-language newspaper, The Jakarta Post, which urged Ishiba to abandon his “Asian NATO” proposal to avoid embarrassment.
Chen pointed out that while ASEAN countries seek cooperation with various nations, the bloc is increasingly wary of extraterritorial powers that may incite conflicts and introduce disruptive ideas. “Such notions undermine ASEAN’s centrality and pose challenges to the geopolitical security of Southeast Asia,” he explained.
Monitoring Global Tensions
ASEAN nations are closely monitoring rising tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. There are concerns that if external powers instigate conflict in the region, it could lead to instability similar to other global hotspots.
“ASEAN is focused on maintaining peace and stability in the region,” Chen concluded. “Collaboration and mutual trust among member states and with neighboring countries are essential to ensuring a prosperous future.”
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ASEAN summits prioritize connectivity and resilience amid disruptions
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