ASEAN ministers meet in Malaysia ahead of 47th summit
Malaysian FM calls ASEAN a “beacon of neutrality” amid global tensions, urges engagement on Myanmar and South China Sea disputes
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) – Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gathered in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday ahead of the bloc’s three-day summit that begins Sunday.
Opening the meeting, Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan described ASEAN as a “beacon of neutrality and a safe harbor amid geopolitical turbulence,” noting that the region has remained “steadfast and productive” despite major power rivalries.
He highlighted the bloc’s efforts to diversify partnerships, citing expanding ties with India, Australia, the European Union, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Commenting on the July border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, Mohamad commended both countries for resolving their dispute through diplomacy.
On Myanmar, he warned that leaving the crisis unresolved could lead to instability across borders. “The road ahead must be guided by determination and active engagement,” he said.
Addressing tensions in the South China Sea, the minister urged “open, but firm and consolidated engagement,” reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to advancing a regional Code of Conduct. ASEAN, he added, “must continue to act as the speakers, and not the spoken for.”
Mohamad also referenced “the unspeakable suffering of Palestinians in Gaza,” calling on the bloc not to ignore conflicts beyond its region.
Timor-Leste formally acceded to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone ahead of its full ASEAN membership, expected to be confirmed during the summit.
Finland’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation will bring the total number of contracting parties to 58.
The meeting was attended by ministers and senior officials from all ASEAN member states, Timor-Leste, and the ASEAN Secretariat.
Founded in 1967, ASEAN includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Leaders from the US, China, Japan, and South Korea are also expected to join the summit.
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