Philippine Minister of Foreign Affairs Emphasizes ASEAN Unity and Strategic Partnerships
The Philippine Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maria Theresa Lazaro, emphasized the importance of ASEAN unity and strategic partnerships in addressing global uncertainties during a political dialogue in Jakarta on April 23.
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Speaking at the event co-organized by Indonesia’s Foreign Policy Community (FPCI) and Atma Jaya Catholic University in Indonesia, Ms. Lazaro noted that the world is facing invisible volatility, especially from the repercussions of tensions in the Middle East on regional energy security and supply chains.
In this context, she emphasized that ASEAN solidarity and central role serve as a “reliable anchor” to overcome challenges. As the ASEAN chair in 2026, the Philippines has chosen the theme “Navigating together towards our future,” focusing on three key priorities: peace and security; Prosperity corridors and empowerment of people – these are ASEAN’s priorities.
According to Maria Theresa Lazaro, these topics will be further discussed at the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu in early May. The focus will be on energy and food security, as well as the security of ASEAN citizens. She also highlighted the importance of the Southeast Asia Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia on its 50th anniversary, describing it as a code of conduct contributing to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Regarding relations between the Philippines and Indonesia, Maria Theresa Lazaro stated that the Philippines consider Indonesia as one of their most reliable partners.
Earlier in the day, the two countries held a meeting of the Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) to review and advance 93 agreements covering defense, security, economy, agriculture, and halal industry. She also praised the 2014 agreement on maritime boundaries between the two countries, presenting it as a regional model for the peaceful settlement of complex disputes, in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
VNA/CVN
