At the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Retreat held in Langkawi, Malaysia, on January 19, 2025, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ foreign ministers convened to discuss pressing regional and international issues. The retreat, marking the first meeting under Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, focused on developments in the South China Sea, the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, and the conflict in the Middle East, particularly Gaza.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo highlighted the retreat’s significance, expressing optimism about future collaborations with Malaysia under its theme of inclusivity and sustainability. The discussions also covered broader topics such as climate change and transnational crimes, reflecting ASEAN’s commitment to a wide range of global challenges.
Malaysia, as the ASEAN chair, emphasized the importance of adhering to international laws and treaties, including the United Nations Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The ministers reaffirmed their support for maintaining peace, security, and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, expressing concerns over recent actions that have increased tensions in the region.
Regarding Myanmar, the ASEAN chair voiced deep concern over the escalation of conflicts and the humanitarian situation, noting minimal progress on the Five-Point Consensus (5PC). The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the 5PC as the primary framework for addressing the political crisis in Myanmar and upheld the decision to limit Myanmar’s participation in ASEAN meetings to a non-political level.
On the Middle East, particularly the situation in Gaza, the ASEAN foreign ministers expressed grave concern over the ongoing war and the dire humanitarian crisis. They condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, called for an immediate ceasefire, and urged the release of hostages, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution and a two-state solution in line with international law.