ASEAN Urges De-Escalation in Middle East
Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have urged the United States and Iran to continue negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting end to the conflict and to fully respect the ceasefire.
At a virtual meeting on the war in the Middle East, they also called for the resumption of safe, unhindered and uninterrupted passage for ships and aircraft through the Strait of Hormuz.
Ministers highlighted the broader impact of the conflict on regional stability, particularly in energy and food supplies. They stressed the need to safeguard access to energy for member states during times of crisis.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation mechanisms with China, Japan and South Korea to help prevent food shortages, price shocks and supply disruptions.
Philippine Foreign Secretary Tess Lazaro said discussions also covered the provision of fertilisers and other key agricultural inputs. Ministers further considered establishing a crisis communication protocol among foreign ministers.
The Philippines confirmed that the May leaders’ summit will focus on food and energy security, as well as the safety of its citizens.