Southeast Asia’s top diplomats are set to meet in Manila to express concerns over escalating hostilities in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing Iran war, which has significantly impacted global oil supply. The annual ASEAN talks, hosted by the Philippines, will feature high-profile participants including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. ASEAN ministers plan to emphasize the need for peace and stability in the region, calling for a complete cessation of military actions in the Middle East and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil supply flows.
Regional concerns include oil price shocks affecting Southeast Asia, prompting Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare a national emergency to manage fuel and food supplies. The foreign ministers are also under pressure to address ongoing civil conflicts in Myanmar, where a military coup has led to significant casualties and detentions. ASEAN’s previous efforts to mediate in Myanmar have struggled, and recent meetings with Myanmar officials have faced criticism for allegedly rolling back diplomatic sanctions without securing meaningful concessions.
Discussion will also cover China’s regional influence, particularly in the disputed South China Sea, where tensions have escalated. Diplomatic efforts aim to establish a “code of conduct” to manage territorial disputes effectively. Overall, the meeting represents a critical moment for ASEAN to navigate complex geopolitical tensions while seeking regional stability and security.
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