Asean Urged To Be United As Neutral Space Erodes

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Malaysian foreign minister Mohamad Hasan says Asean’s centrality is being tested amid intensifying rivalries in trade, technology and security.
Foreign minister Mohamad Hasan cautioned that divisions within Asean  could encourage the rise of new power groupings in the region.KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign minister Mohamad Hasan has warned that Asean’s “space for neutrality and centrality” is narrowing, as the great power competition intensifies across multiple fronts
In his opening remarks as chair at the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, he said the bloc must remain firm and united as these rivalries deepen in trade, technology, and security.
“As the international landscape becomes increasingly dominated by contestation rather than consensus, division rather than dialogue, Asean finds itself at a crossroads.
“We must continue to act as the speakers, not the spoken for,” he said.
Mohamad said Asean’s unity was critical to preserve its strategic autonomy and keep the bloc as the key platform for regional dialogue and cooperation.
“Hesitation or disunity will only encourage fragmentation and cause the proliferation of minilateral groupings that risk undermining Asean centrality,” he said.
On regional flashpoints, Mohamad said Malaysia was encouraged by the progress made in easing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia following recent border clashes, saying both nations’ diplomatic approach “reminded us of the fragility of peace”.
He said Asean looked forward to the signing of a formal ceasefire agreement and the deployment of an observers team during the summit.
On the crisis in Myanmar, Mohamad reiterated that reconciliation must be led by the people of Myanmar and supported by Asean.
He said while progress must not be forced, Asean could not afford inaction either.
“When difficulties arise, we can, and must, act as one,” he said, adding that Malaysia had deployed aid and personnel after a deadly earthquake in Myanmar earlier this year.
“Whatever uncertainties lie ahead, we will face them the Asean way. Our diversity will continue to be our greatest source of strength,” he said. - FMT

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