Brian Jeffrey
On October 9, during the ASEAN Summit in Laos, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and leaders from ASEAN and Timor-Leste held a private meeting to address crucial regional and international matters.
The discussions recognized the rapid changes in global and regional security which present various opportunities and challenges for ASEAN. Ongoing geopolitical tensions, conflicts, and economic uncertainties, alongside issues like climate change and cybersecurity threats, continue to affect the region.
Amid these challenges, the leaders pointed out potential new avenues for growth that could benefit ASEAN and its associates. They stressed the importance of enhancing connectivity and resilience while emphasizing that ASEAN should stay unified and confident in navigating these challenges and seizing available opportunities.
Concerning international affairs, especially the East Sea, the leaders reiterated ASEAN’s commitment to international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes. They highlighted the significance of adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 as a framework for fostering peace and stability in the area.
The leaders also commended the efforts made by the Lao Chair and the Chair’s Special Envoy on Myanmar, underscoring the relevance of the Five-Point Consensus in guiding ASEAN’s role in aiding Myanmar.
During the session, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh shared his perspectives on the prevailing global situation. He acknowledged that, despite an overall trend of peace, localized conflicts and wars remain disruptive, leading to supply chain issues and rising costs in raw materials, energy, and transportation.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called for ASEAN to remain united and utilize its collective voice to advocate for an end to conflicts, emphasizing solutions that align with international law.
On the matter of the East Sea, the Prime Minister reinforced the need for non-violent approaches to territorial disagreements, grounded in international law, specifically UNCLOS 1982. He urged all involved parties to honor the sovereignty and rights of the countries involved.
Moreover, he underscored the importance of ensuring secure navigation and air travel in the East Sea, which is a crucial global shipping route accounting for 60% of global trade. He encouraged ASEAN nations to maintain unity and strengthen their central role and collective stance regarding the East Sea.
Concerning Myanmar, the Prime Minister recognized the support from the Lao Chair and prior rotating chairs towards a resolution based on the Five-Point Consensus. However, he pointed out that progress has been slow, suggesting that ASEAN might need to consider a different strategy.
He expressed his support for various proposals from ASEAN members and reiterated that any resolution to the crisis in Myanmar must originate from within, with the Myanmar people making their own choices.
He advocated for open communication and negotiations among the involved parties in Myanmar to resolve the conflict and mitigate harm to the populace, while also addressing wider security issues, including cross-border crimes and cyber fraud.
In this regard, the Prime Minister encouraged stakeholders in Myanmar to collaborate in seeking solutions, with ASEAN at the forefront of facilitating dialogue. He emphasized the necessity for ASEAN to strengthen its unity and central role in these processes.
These principles, he noted, have been vital to ASEAN’s effectiveness and trustworthiness, allowing it to navigate challenges and become a cornerstone of peace and cooperation.
