At the ASEAN+3 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, Vietnam made a compelling call for enhanced economic integration and regional resilience among ASEAN countries and their partners China, Japan, and South Korea. Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung highlighted the urgency of deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, connectivity, and sustainable development. In his address, he stressed the need for effective implementation of regional trade agreements and emphasized expanding collaboration in energy security, food security, digital transformation, innovation, and clean energy.
Minister Lê Hoài Trung also proposed the exploration of regional energy cooperation mechanisms, aiming to bolster resilience against potential future economic and geopolitical challenges. This proposal comes at a time when the region is looking to fortify its economic structures and sustainable practices against a backdrop of global uncertainties. The meeting served as a reaffirmation of ASEAN+3’s pivotal role as a platform for regional cooperation, with member countries committing to expedite the ASEAN+3 Work Plan for 2023–2027.
Significantly, the ministers at the meeting expressed their support for stronger financial cooperation and the expansion of regional food reserves. They also discussed initiatives in renewable energy and underscored the importance of investing in education, technology, tourism, and cultural exchanges. These commitments reflect a collective effort to enhance the region’s economic and social framework and to promote sustainable growth and stability.
In addition, China, Japan, and South Korea reiterated their backing of ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs. They pledged ongoing support in advancing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, a strategic blueprint aimed at fostering closer regional integration and community building. This meeting underscored a united front among the ASEAN+3 nations to tackle common challenges and leverage joint opportunities for the benefit of the region.