ASEAN foreign ministers convened in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, December 22, 2025, to address escalating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, underscoring the bloc's commitment to regional stability. The emergency meeting, chaired by Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, emphasized the urgent need for dialogue amid concerns over geopolitical disruptions threatening Southeast Asia's security framework.
Malaysia's Foreign Ministry stated the gathering aimed to explore measures supporting de-escalation and a cessation of hostilities. Minister Hasan warned that unresolved conflicts risk undermining ASEAN's credibility as a cornerstone of regional peace, urging members to prioritize diplomatic resolutions. "A security shock in our interconnected region becomes a global concern," he stressed during the closed-door discussions.
Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow announced plans for a follow-up meeting scheduled for December 24 in Chanthaburi province, near the Cambodian border. The proposal signals cautious optimism for direct bilateral engagement, though details remain under negotiation.
Analysts note the talks reflect ASEAN's proactive stance in mitigating conflicts as global attention shifts toward Asia's evolving security dynamics. The outcome could influence investor confidence in Southeast Asian markets, particularly in cross-border trade corridors.
