JAKARTA: In a press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 17, Secretary of State for the ministry and ASEAN spokesperson, Kung Phoak, provided a briefing on the outcomes of the 56th ASEAN Foreigner Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings to discuss regional cooperation, which were held in Indonesia last week.

The ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference 10+1 Sessions and the 24th ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers Meeting were held in Jakarta on July 13, with ASEAN foreign ministers engaging in important discussions with key partners.

ASEAN foreign ministers held dialogues with their counterparts from Russia, India, China, Japan, South Korea, the European Union, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The sessions aimed to review existing cooperation and pave the way for future endeavors.

Some highlights of the meetings were the reaffirmation of the ASEAN-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the celebration of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. This was followed up with talks on the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was requested by Japan earlier this year. The meeting also recognized South Korea’s commitment to fostering a peaceful and prosperous region.

ASEAN and the EU reiterated their commitment to realizing the goals outlined in the Joint Leaders Statement. The 45th anniversary of ASEAN-Canada Dialogue Relations underscored the enduring relationship between Southeast Asia and Canada.

The ASEAN foreign ministers acknowledged the implementation of the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action for 2022-2026, which emphasized economic integration, girls' education, the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, health systems, and climate transition.

EAC News asked ASEAN spokesperson Kung Phoak about the interaction between Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn and Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in regards to the war in Ukraine and ASEAN’s stance on the conflict.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by both sides, but emphasized areas where resilience, inclusivity, and strength can be built together. He said that ASEAN upholds the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, independence, and spiritual integrity. The chairman advocated for dialogue to address crises and find solutions, emphasizing the importance of resolving issues rather than exacerbating them. Kung Phoak emphasized the need for all parties to come to the negotiating table for the benefit of the region by ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity. He emphasized that overcoming disruptions and navigating challenges require collective efforts and collaboration.