Global crises in focus as ASEAN leaders meet amid Iran conflict

Meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which began on May 7 in the Philippines, are set to focus not only on regional issues in Southeast Asia but also on global crises, including the conflict in the Middle East.

Energy and food security are expected to receive particular attention, Caliber.Az reports, citing Reuters.

The ASEAN bloc, which brings together around 700 million people and has a combined GDP of about $3.8 trillion, is heavily dependent on energy imports, making the impact of the war in Iran a central topic of discussion

The Philippines, which currently chairs the bloc, is seeking agreement on a framework mechanism for the joint allocation of oil supplies in the event of a crisis.

Philippine Foreign Minister Maria Theresa Lazaro said the region must strengthen coordination and preparedness for external shocks, stressing that developments outside Southeast Asia directly affect member states.

A separate leaders’ meeting involving the Philippines, Thailand and Cambodia is also scheduled to address tensions following recent border clashes, despite an existing ceasefire.

Diplomats say the energy crisis could push ASEAN from general statements toward more concrete measures, including potential joint fuel-sharing mechanisms.

A draft joint statement reportedly calls for negotiations between the United States and Iran, an end to hostilities, and the protection of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, through which around one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments pass.

Leaders are also expected to discuss the situation in Myanmar and tensions in the South China Sea, while continuing to urge dialogue with China on a regional code of conduct.

In Myanmar, ASEAN remains divided and does not recognise the outcome of recent political developments, insisting on progress toward a settlement and access to opposition figures, including Aung San Suu Kyi.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov