Philippine Foreign Minister emphasizes ASEAN unity and strategic partnerships
Philippine Foreign Minister Maria Theresa Lazaro highlighted the importance of ASEAN unity and strategic partnerships in facing global uncertainties during a political dialogue in Jakarta on April 23.
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Philippine Foreign Minister Maria Theresa Lazaro.
Photo: GMA/VNA/CVN
Speaking at the event co-hosted by the Indonesian Foreign Policy Community (FPCI) and Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Ms. Lazaro noted that the world is facing invisible volatility, especially the impact of tensions in the Middle East on regional energy security and supply chains.
In this context, she emphasized that ASEAN’s solidarity and central role serve as a “reliable anchor” to overcome challenges. As the ASEAN Chair in 2026, the Philippines have chosen the theme “Navigating together towards our future,” focusing on three key priorities: peace and security; Prosperity corridors and empowerment of communities: 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. Emphasis will be on energy and food security, as well as ASEAN citizens’ safety. She also highlighted the importance of the Southeast Asia Treaty of Amity and Cooperation on its 50th anniversary, calling it a code of conduct contributing to peace and stability in the region.
Regarding relations between the Philippines and Indonesia, Maria Theresa Lazaro stated that the Philippines view Indonesia as one of their most reliable partners.
Earlier in the day, the two countries held a Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting to review and advance 93 agreements covering defense, security, economy, agriculture, and halal industry. She also welcomed the 2014 agreement on maritime boundaries between the two countries, presenting it as a regional model for peacefully settling complex disputes, in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
VNA/CVN
