Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan pointed out that despite global uncertainties and the intensifying competition among major powers, ASEAN has always maintained a firm stance and operated efficiently.
He said that through its resilience and cohesion, ASEAN has successfully resisted external pressure and maintained stability in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment.
He said in his opening speech at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting today (25th): “In the eyes of the international community, ASEAN has always been a neutral beacon and a safe haven amidst geopolitical turbulence.”
He added that during Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, ASEAN is committed to maintaining unity and a sense of mission, and when planning its future direction, will always adhere to its core values of trust, dialogue, and consensus.
“These values are the adhesive that empowers us, allowing us to exceed the world’s expectations and continue to thrive as a regional model, even with our incredible diversity in culture, language, religion, and governance.”
He pointed out that ASEAN’s expansion, including the accession of Timor-Leste and more partner countries signing the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, highlights ASEAN’s position as a globally respected center for dialogue.
“Algeria and Uruguay joined the treaty earlier this year, and with Finland set to join, the total number of signatories will rise to 58.”
He said that ASEAN has played a mediating role in helping two neighboring countries ease tensions, and reminded all parties not to forget the fragility of peace.
“Through tireless mediation efforts, tensions between the two countries have eased. We commend both sides for choosing diplomacy and dialogue to resolve their differences.”
Mohamad Hasan reiterated that as ASEAN chair, Malaysia will continue to support peacebuilding efforts, and that the forthcoming ceasefire agreement and the establishment of an ASEAN observer team will mark significant milestones in regional diplomacy.
He emphasized that unity must continue to guide ASEAN’s handling of both the South China Sea issue and the Myanmar crisis, and that both should be addressed on the basis of diplomacy and trust, not coercive measures.
This ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is one of a series of meetings before the 47th ASEAN Summit, aiming to bring together regional leaders to discuss major political, economic, and security issues under the theme of “Inclusion and Sustainability.”
Malaysia is hosting this summit as the 2025 ASEAN chair and will conclude its term at the end of this year.