The 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Jakarta is being held from 5-7 September. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in the South China Sea after China released a new map laying claims over large swathes disputed by some ASEAN members, triggering protests by these states.
ASEAN leaders will discuss the crisis in Myanmar, among other issues. Singapore’s Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement that ASEAN leaders will discuss ways to ensure the bloc’s continued relevance and centrality in the evolving regional architecture. The leaders will also discuss strengthening ASEAN integration and expanding collaboration in key areas such as the digital and green economies.
In line with the Chair’s theme of “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth”, the summit provides an opportunity for ASEAN leaders to discuss and chart the directions for strengthening the ASEAN Community and making the bloc the focal point of growth amidst the complexities and changes in the current global and regional landscape.
At the 43rd ASEAN Summit, participating countries are scheduled to review the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and blueprints in the three pillars of security, economy, and culture-society.
They will also seek measures to deepen relations between the ASEAN and its partners and compare notes on regional and international issues.
ASEAN is a regional grouping that aims to promote economic and security cooperation among its ten members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The ASEAN Summit is the highest policy-making body in ASEAN comprising the Head of State or Government of ASEAN Member States. The ASEAN Summit is held twice annually at a time to be determined by the Chair of the ASEAN Summit in consultation with other ASEAN Member States.