Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu discussed the city's first five-year plan and the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in its economic future.

The South China Morning Post has signed three memorandums of understanding in Kuala Lumpur, aiming to deepen regional cooperation and serve as a bridge between Hong Kong, Malaysia, and the wider Asean region.

Britain's new Labour government is working to assure Southeast Asian nations that its efforts to strengthen ties with Europe will not come at the expense of its relationship with the region, as evidenced by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband's first overseas meeting being with ASEAN.

Rohingya people are drowning while attempting sea voyages, driven by desperate conditions rather than misjudging tides, as ASEAN focuses on oil debates.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is intensifying surveillance operations and expanding intelligence-sharing with Southeast Asian law enforcement agencies to combat smuggling, particularly of cigarettes.

Myanmar's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has criticized ASEAN and presented his government's agenda, following a military-engineered election that allowed him to transition into a civilian role.

Observers express skepticism about concluding a South China Sea code of conduct by year-end, citing 'negotiation fatigue' and significant gaps in perspectives between ASEAN and China.

A survey reveals that over 90% of mainland Chinese enterprises plan to expand overseas within the next two years, with more than 80% intending to use Hong Kong as their primary launch pad into Southeast Asia.

An annual e-commerce shopping festival supporting Hong Kong's small and medium-sized enterprises is set to expand into the ASEAN region, starting with Singapore and Malaysia.

Analysts suggest that Kim Yo-jong's condemnation of an ASEAN call indicates the bloc's diminishing relevance to North Korea's foreign policy.

Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, called nuclear disarmament a "foolish pipe dream" and urged ASEAN states not to be exploited as "paid mouthpieces of the USA."

Australia has implemented a 25 per cent increase in international student visa fees but has carved out an exemption for ASEAN neighbors, providing relief to students from countries like Malaysia.

The first high-level conference for parties to the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation focused on key issues including conflict prevention, maritime security, and addressing emerging threats and challenges.

India has rejected Pakistan's statements regarding the Indus Waters Treaty made during an ASEAN meeting. India reiterated its unchanged position on the matter.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's remarks on Türkiye's admission as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner have highlighted how this partnership advances Türkiye's long-term strategic goals in Asia.

Lithuania has officially joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, with the document signed by Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys in Manila.

India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal categorically rejected "baseless and unwarranted comments" made by Pakistan minister Ishaq Dar regarding Kashmir at an ASEAN meeting.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed an ASEAN meeting, drawing attention to global challenges including the Kashmir dispute and India’s threats to Pakistan’s water share.

Renewed fighting between the US and Iran has overshadowed the ASEAN gathering in Manila.

Despite receiving an upgraded rating, the Philippines continues to trail its ASEAN counterparts in terms of investor confidence. The country still faces challenges in attracting and retaining foreign investment compared to its regional peers.

Australia has confronted China regarding a 'destabilizing' missile test in the Pacific region during an ASEAN meeting, prompting Beijing to urge Canberra to abandon 'double standards'.

Al Jazeera reports from anti-US protest outside ASEAN summit

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Manila to participate in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum ministerial meeting.

ASEAN ministers have not responded to the Ayungin clash, with Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro stating that the Philippines and China are still discussing the issue and are set to meet.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced that Türkiye has been admitted to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a dialogue partner.

Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, and Romania have been accepted as the newest members of the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, an organization based on principles of peace and regional cooperation.

The Philippine Foreign Secretary emphasized the importance of ASEAN member states working together. He called for greater cooperation within the regional bloc.

The F.A.Z. Frühdenker briefing highlights discussions between the USA, China, and Russia at the ASEAN meeting, alongside other news such as Pistorius's visit to KNDS and a heatwave in Spain.

The Kremlin stated on Monday that it would welcome a meeting between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov this week in Manila, where the ASEAN meeting is taking place.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Philippine counterpart Theresa Lazaro are scheduled to hold their first meeting of 2024 on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers meeting in Manila.

Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will participate in the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and related events in Manila, following an invitation from the AMM 2026 chair.

Senator Marco Rubio has urged Cuba to release 700 political prisoners. This call comes as Rubio also visited the Philippines to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations.

South Korean food exporters are increasingly viewing Vietnam not just as a market but as a strategic logistical hub for expanding their presence across Southeast Asia, recognizing the region's growing importance.

Vietnam's Party General Secretary and State President To Lam has called for the country's national digital identity app, VNeID, to be linked with Singapore's electronic identification systems and other ASEAN countries to facilitate cross-border data sharing.

Myanmar is gradually emerging from diplomatic isolation as Southeast Asian foreign ministers met with their counterpart from the junta-run nation in Bangkok, marking a step towards re-engagement that analysts warn could lend legitimacy to the government.

ASEAN foreign ministers held an informal meeting in Thailand regarding the situation in Myanmar, with the foreign minister appointed by Myanmar's military-influenced government participating for the first time since the coup five years ago.

The Philippines announced that ASEAN will hold a special meeting to discuss its engagement strategy with Myanmar, which has been in political turmoil since a military coup.

A small group of Singaporeans is actively working to boost tourism in Timor-Leste, the least-visited ASEAN country, by mapping roads and organizing word-of-mouth tours. Their efforts aim to change global perceptions and put the nation on the tourist map.

Singapore's decision to open more labor channels to workers from East Timor could provide the city-state with an 'early-mover' edge in an emerging ASEAN market, though significant economic gains are anticipated to take years.

Asean military observers have visited the Thai-Cambodian frontier to assess damage and claims following last year's deadly clashes and ongoing allegations of ceasefire breaches between Bangkok and Phnom Penh.

ASEAN nations are looking to deepen supply chain integration with China's Greater Bay Area to leverage its advanced technology and manufacturing expertise, with Hong Kong also expected to benefit.

East Timor is aiming to strengthen ties between ASEAN and China's Greater Bay Area to attract investment and technology, despite facing significant challenges in building capacity for regional integration.

As ASEAN foreign ministers prepare to meet in Manila, a significant shift in the bloc's approach to Myanmar is underway, with concerns about side deals missing the true power dynamics.

A commentary from an ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute academic suggests that the significance of the ASEAN-Russia summit lies in the grouping's desire to maintain diplomatic flexibility, rather than indicating a tilt toward Moscow.

A recent meeting between the leaders of Myanmar and China may have given the military junta an opening to persuade ASEAN to allow its return to bloc summits, with analysts suggesting the regime could feel emboldened to escalate actions.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has called on Association of Southeast Asian Nations partners and development institutions to invest in mass rail transit systems to sustain the Philippines' development.

An analysis of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at its 60-year mark highlights its journey through peace and prosperity, while also touching upon challenges like rising diesel costs and food prices affecting citizens.

Japan has secured a 20-year LNG supply deal with Malaysia's Petronas, positioning Malaysia as a key energy and security partner for Tokyo amidst global supply concerns.

South Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations are set to commence official talks to upgrade their free trade agreement, aiming to expand bilateral ties in emerging sectors like the digital economy.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that ASEAN does not want an isolated Myanmar, emphasizing that engagement is the best path towards peace and the country's eventual reintegration into the regional bloc.

Hong Kong is actively positioning its Northern Metropolis development as a strategic platform to connect ASEAN businesses with economic opportunities across the Greater Bay Area.

ASEAN has concluded discussions on a landmark regional digital economy framework agreement, with plans to officially sign the deal in November 2026. This agreement aims to bolster the digital economy across the Southeast Asian region.

President José Ramos-Horta called on ASEAN to have the 'audacity to declare the South China Sea a zone of peace' during a special address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, criticizing world leaders for failing to uphold global order.

Experts suggest that companies succeeding in ASEAN possess a unique understanding of the region's market and dynamics.

Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Akazawa, announced that Japan will actively provide its expertise to support ASEAN's joint oil reserve initiative, aiming to stabilize oil supply in Southeast Asia.

ASEAN Cableship has unveiled a new logo to mark its 40th anniversary.

As the costs associated with regional conflicts surge, ASEAN member states are considering the establishment of a shared oil reserve and an integrated power grid to enhance energy security.

ASEAN has reportedly achieved a historic rice agreement between Marcos and Hung, signifying a significant development in regional agricultural cooperation.

The US Ambassador to ASEAN reaffirmed Washington's commitment to economic and security engagement in Southeast Asia, despite concerns over potential Trump-era tariffs.

Southeast Asian governments are working to develop a joint strategy to counter the growing threat of cyberscammers. The criminal industry has become too large and interconnected within ASEAN economies to be addressed solely by individual policing efforts.

Dar has reaffirmed support for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), indicating continued diplomatic engagement.

Myanmar's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, made his first visit to Thailand as a civilian leader, seeking to bolster international legitimacy and discuss ASEAN reintegration. The visit drew criticism from human rights groups and some international observers who view it as legitimizing the junta, even as a coalition of regime opponents has expressed willingness for dialogue while the civil war continues.

Hong Kong has been urged to act as a 'super partner' to help enterprises expand into markets across ASEAN, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Europe. A major chamber of commerce also recommended building an annual review into the city's first five-year plan.

Analysts suggest that the Philippines' recent push for seabed rights in the South China Sea could complicate its role as Asean chair in building regional consensus for a code of conduct.

The Philippines has been ranked 65th in the latest Atlas of Impunity, indicating it remains a weaker performer on accountability despite being one of Southeast Asia’s longest-running electoral democracies. The country trails four other ASEAN neighbors in the index.

East Timor has become the unexpected venue for a legal case alleging war crimes and crimes against humanity by Myanmar's military leadership, a development that is challenging ASEAN's cautious approach to the junta.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro stated that the Philippines cannot solely rely on ASEAN for national security and must strengthen its defense alliances with other nations.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for massive, sustained, and structured capital investment and regional cooperation to drive the energy transition in ASEAN.

Hong Kong's efforts to attract Southeast Asian companies have achieved a milestone with the Malaysian government preparing to list a US$1.5 billion Islamic bond in the international financial center.

China and Japan have presented conflicting accounts regarding whether their foreign ministers held discussions last week during the ASEAN summit.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will host the 22nd Asean-PAC meeting, aiming to strengthen regional cooperation in anti-graft efforts among member countries.

Analysts suggest that a new wave of US tariffs targeting seven Southeast Asian countries, citing forced labor practices, is reinforcing perceptions of Washington as an unreliable partner in the region.

Serbian official Đurić stated that Serbia successfully achieved all its objectives during its participation in the ASEAN summit held in Manila, emphasizing the importance of the country's presence at the conference.

ASEAN meetings in the Philippines saw progress on the South China Sea code of conduct, with a target for year-end conclusion, alongside discussions on broader maritime security, energy security, and Myanmar.

Thailand's passport has seen a slight decline in global rankings this year, placing it fifth among ASEAN nations, while Singapore maintains its position for the most powerful travel document.

India has criticized Pakistan for 'cynically exploiting' a multilateral forum, referring to remarks made by Pakistan's Ishaq Dar at an ASEAN event, accusing Pakistan of spreading falsehoods and state-sponsored disinformation.

Türkiye is expected to expand cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in trade, economic relations, defense industry, and energy.

Timor-Leste's leader Xanana Gusmão has promised zero tolerance for online crime, with over 400 arrests, a new cybersecurity law, and cooperation with ASEAN to combat scam networks relocating from Southeast Asia.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys will visit the Philippines from July 23-25 to participate in the 50th-anniversary commemoration of the Southeast Asia Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.

China's Foreign Minister stated the country is ready to handle sensitive issues with India. Both ministers are attending meetings related to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Manila.

Top diplomats from the 'Quad' nations focused on ASEAN maritime security, issuing a joint statement emphasizing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain, notably without explicitly mentioning China.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio vowed to stand up to China at an upcoming ASEAN-led meeting, where he and Wang will participate and potentially meet on the sidelines.

Discussions at upcoming ASEAN talks are expected to be dominated by the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, a member state excluded from summits since its 2021 military coup, and the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The Kremlin has expressed a positive stance regarding a potential meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Manila this week, on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit.

Upcoming ASEAN meetings in Manila this week will provide an opportunity for Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Japanese counterpart Toshimitsu Motegi to meet, potentially for better or worse.

The ninth Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) commenced on July 18 in Kuala Lumpur, featuring an eight-day showcase of international cinema. The festival also achieved official recognition from ASEAN Records during its opening ceremony.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Manila next week for ASEAN meetings and talks with President Marcos, as Washington aims to strengthen ties with the Philippines.

Analysts warn that ASEAN's re-engagement with Myanmar risks providing legitimacy to the military-led government and undermining the regional group's own plan to end violence in the war-torn country.

Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing is scheduled to make an official visit to Thailand in early August, marking his second trip to an ASEAN member state since taking the presidency.

Asean foreign ministers renewed pressure on Myanmar to advance the bloc's Five-Point Consensus (5PC), with the detention of political prisoners, including former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, remaining a…

A report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) suggests that while Artificial Intelligence could affect millions of jobs in ASEAN countries, it does not foresee significant overall job cuts in the region.

The International Labour Organization reports that Generative AI poses significant exposure to ASEAN labor markets, emphasizing that AI should be seen as a tool to be mastered rather than a complete solution.

The Asean Iron & Steel Council (AISC) has urged a review of induction furnace (IF) technology in reinforcing steel bar production across Southeast Asia due to structural safety concerns.

Myanmar's leader Min Aung Hlaing has visited Laos, marking his first trip to an ASEAN member state, a visit analysts say is significant for regional geopolitical dynamics and signals a potential shift in engagement with Myanmar's military-backed administration.

Hong Kong has launched a new ASEAN Chamber of Commerce to strengthen regional ties and Mirae Asset has introduced a new trading app, positioning the city as a key link between ASEAN and the Greater Bay Area.

An event held at the National University of Singapore on June 22, organized by Cyprus's High Commissioner and Chief Scientist, highlighted Cyprus's role as a gateway between the EU and ASEAN.

Southeast Asian diplomats at the Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity stated that South Korea's partnership with ASEAN should evolve beyond viewing the region primarily as a manufacturing base.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has arrived in Malaysia for his first official visit since taking office, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

French writer Mathias Énard makes his foray into non-fiction with the release of his tetralogy, 'Melancolía de los confines'.

While Moscow recovers from its largest drone attack since the start of the war, Vladimir Putin continues to participate in the Russia-ASEAN summit in Kazan.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung called for stronger cooperation between ASEAN and Russia in resilient supply chains, energy partnerships, and innovation at a recent session.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr signalled a new strategy in addressing the South China Sea topic during the country's Independence Day celebrations, moving away from direct confrontation.

The Philippines' assertive approach to maritime territorial disputes, particularly its championing of the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling, is seen as out of step with ASEAN trends and risks undermining regional cohesion.

The ASEAN Future Forum 2026 highlighted the critical importance of unity for shaping a peaceful and resilient future amidst global uncertainty. Scholars at the forum underscored Vietnam's significant role in fostering a connected and proactive ASEAN.

The ASEAN Future Forum (AFF) 2026 has officially opened in Hanoi, Vietnam, under the theme “Shaping Our Future Together: Peace, Prosperity and People-Centered.”

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is leading a high-level delegation on an official visit to Vietnam to attend the 3rd ASEAN Future Forum and discuss expanding political, economic, and security cooperation.

Malaysia is poised to deepen its ties in food security and clean energy with Chile and Japan, respectively, while Iran aims to strengthen its relationship with China, a 'principal strategic partner'.

Analysts suggest that if the Philippines is elected to the UN Security Council, it could amplify ASEAN's voice on global issues and advance regional priorities while balancing relations with major powers.

The race among ASEAN nations to become an AI hub is generating significant growth hopes, but also presents potential risks for workers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the environment.

The Irrawaddy explores the question of whether Myanmar will withdraw from ASEAN, amidst ongoing political turmoil and international pressure regarding its internal affairs.

Chinese brands are experiencing a significant surge across ASEAN markets, expanding their presence beyond electric vehicles and electronics into various other sectors.

The Javan and Sumatran rhinos are down to their last few dozen, just like the Cat Ba langur of Vietnam, while the soala living in Laos’ Annamite mountains may already be gone for good. Southeast…

Chinese brands are experiencing a significant surge in popularity and market presence across ASEAN countries, expanding beyond traditional sectors like EVs and electronics.

The 59th founding anniversary of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) was commemorated with an event held in Athens, Greece.

Congress has been asked to put a tax valuation law on hold, while President Marcos emphasized the importance of the rule of law to ASEAN. Separately, President Marcos was challenged to prove his innocence in a flood control scam.

Thailand has introduced its Siam Silica framework, a national roadmap aimed at establishing the country as a key hub in the semiconductor supply chain and propelling it to a top player in ASEAN's semiconductor race.

Singapore is ready to implement its haze response plans after the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre raised the alert to Level 2, indicating an increased risk of transboundary haze in the region.

Turkey's ascension to Asean dialogue partner status on July 21 is seen by analysts as the West Asian country's bid to position itself as a middle power.

India is actively promoting itself as a third option for ASEAN nations, offering an alternative to the influence of the United States and China, as highlighted at a recent food fair in New Delhi.

Malaysia's deputy minister stated that the country's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are well-prepared to engage with ASEAN's digital economy, citing widespread adoption of digital tools like QR codes.

Jose Ma. Concepcion III, chair of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (BAC) Philippines, is advocating for a more inclusive and borderless digital economy across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The 44th Aseanapol conference successfully concluded, with participants emphasizing the need for stronger ties among ASEAN police forces. The conference aimed to enhance cooperation in combating transnational crime.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is evaluating a proposal from the Aseanapol Conference to ban social media use for minors.

Türkiye has been elevated from an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner to a full ASEAN Dialogue Partner, marking a significant diplomatic milestone.

China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have urged a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and pledged to enhance cooperation on energy security.

Tensions have intensified in the South China Sea due to Beijing's territorial claims, which are now overshadowing the ASEAN meeting and impacting Sino-American relations.

Myanmar's relationship with the ASEAN bloc remains strained, despite the country's efforts to normalize ties after years of being sidelined from top-level meetings.

India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar participated in the ASEAN Regional Forum meeting and the East Asia Summit, where he stated that attacks on civilian shipping in the Middle East crisis cannot be tolerated.

AirBorneo, a Sarawak state-owned carrier, reports that its newly launched Singapore-Kuching flights are 80% booked for Chinese New Year and plans to expand its fleet and regional network across ASEAN.

South Korea called for enhanced regional cooperation to strengthen supply chain resilience and energy security, while also seeking continued support for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula at an ASEAN+3 gathering.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Dar and his Omani counterpart met on the sidelines of the ASEAN forum, agreeing to strengthen collaboration through high-level exchanges, enhanced trade, and investment.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. insisted there was no harassment by law enforcers who pushed back protesters outside an Association of Southeast Asian Nations meeting.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has urged for deeper cooperation between India and ASEAN, emphasizing partnership in trade, investment, technology, and connectivity amidst current global instability.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled to meet with his Quad counterparts on the sidelines of the ASEAN meeting in Manila. This gathering will facilitate discussions among the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue members.

Southeast Asian countries are highly affected by oil supply shortages caused by Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closure.

Singapore has warned that technology is becoming an 'actor in its own right' as artificial intelligence reshapes military operations, and will host the inaugural ASEAN Regional Cyber Exercise to strengthen regional cyber cooperation.

CIMB has launched a new private wealth proposition specifically tailored for its clients across the ASEAN region.

The 59th ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting has officially commenced in Manila, bringing together top diplomats from Southeast Asian nations. The Philippine chair urged the bloc to 'navigate our future together' as ministers tackle regional security challenges, including Myanmar, and economic resilience amid global uncertainty.

The 59th ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting officially began in Manila, bringing together top diplomats from Southeast Asian nations.

ASEAN foreign ministers are meeting in Manila to address key regional challenges, including energy and food security, the crisis in Myanmar, and South China Sea tensions.

ASEAN ministers are convening in Manila to discuss pressing regional security issues, including the conflict in West Asia, the situation in Gaza, and strategies to bolster food security within the bloc.

Investors and Indonesian policymakers are expressing optimism for the long-discussed ASEAN power grid, as surging demand from AI and data centers, alongside the region's energy transition, fuels its momentum.

China aims to lead a new global order through artificial intelligence, offering AI training and developing AI cooperation centers with countries from BRICS, ASEAN, Latin America, and the African Union.

Malaysia's Ministry of Digital launched the Korea-Asean Digital Academy (KADA), a joint initiative with South Korea, aimed at training 200 AI and digital professionals.

Myanmar has informed ASEAN that Aung San Suu Kyi will be looked after, according to an envoy, during a meeting of top diplomats from the 11-member Southeast Asian bloc. This marks the first meeting with Myanmar's counterpart since the coup, aimed at kick-starting a peace initiative.

ASEAN foreign ministers are scheduled to hold their first informal meeting with Myanmar's Foreign Minister U Tin Maung Swe to discuss developments in his country and seek a way forward.

M-DAQ Global is widening its presence in the ASEAN region through the integration of METech in Vietnam, expanding its financial technology services.

US Vice-President J.D. Vance noted that the United Arab Emirates, traditionally hawkish and pro-Israel, is now engaging in conversations with Iran that have not happened before, suggesting a potential shift in Persian Gulf relations.

A top Communist Party official reiterated Beijing's stance to ASEAN, stating that China does not aim to become a regional hegemon and vowing to strengthen energy cooperation with the bloc.

Italy participated as the guest of honor at the fifth edition of the Cosmoprof CBE ASEAN beauty and cosmetics trade show, held from June 24 to 26 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

Vladimir Putin has remained silent on events in Crimea and Ukrainian strikes, even as Moscow saw smoke last week and a state of emergency was declared in Crimea. He focused instead on the ASEAN meeting in Kazan.

House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has proposed expanding the Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) body focused on dangerous drugs to combat increasingly interconnected transnational drug trade.

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's visit to Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin, as part of an ASEAN delegation, is seen by analysts as a pragmatic move despite Singapore's ongoing sanctions against Moscow.

A new analysis suggests that China-ASEAN relations encompass more than just geopolitical tensions, highlighting opportunities in trade and infrastructure alongside traditional concerns like the South China Sea disputes.

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the importance of upholding international law and pursuing peaceful dispute resolution during the ASEAN-Russia summit, addressing a more volatile global landscape.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim visited Kazan for ASEAN-Russia talks, focusing on expanding cooperation in energy, food security, and trade, and also discussed bilateral ties with Uzbekistan during a transit stop.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's visit to Hanoi highlighted growing diplomatic and economic ties between Thailand and Vietnam, as both nations collaborate on an ASEAN 'plus or minus' strategy.

President Marcos urged Filipinos to prioritize the nation over self-interest, as the US and China closely watch his participation in Russia-ASEAN talks.

Russia is actively seeking closer ties with Southeast Asian nations, with a summit between Russia and ASEAN expected to address energy crises and Moscow's diplomatic isolation.

Malaysia's Deputy Transport Minister stated that the country is well-positioned to become a leading rail nation in ASEAN through strong collaboration.

The U.S.-ASEAN Business Council Institute (USABCI) has announced a funding package exceeding US$450,000 to support Vietnam's ongoing efforts to locate and identify individuals missing from the war.

Anwar Ibrahim stated that ASEAN's energy demand is projected to surge over 60% by 2040, driven by AI and urbanization. He also highlighted the vulnerability of fossil fuel economies, citing the crisis in the Hormuz Strait as an example.

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, alongside Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, inaugurated an exhibition at the Madrid Botanical Garden commemorating 150 years of diplomatic relations between their nations.

The competition among ASEAN nations to become an AI hub is generating hopes for economic growth but also raising concerns about potential risks for workers, small and medium-sized enterprises, and the environment.

East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta stated at the Shangri-La Dialogue that sustained security cannot come from the 'barrel of a gun' and that the world can learn diplomatic lessons from ASEAN.

ASEAN defence ministers have reaffirmed their collective commitment to ensuring the free flow of trade through international corridors, emphasizing regional stability and economic cooperation.

The Philippines plans to leverage its ASEAN chairmanship to enhance its tourism sector, focusing on “warmth and authenticity” despite competition and accessibility challenges.

The China-Laos Railway has experienced a substantial rise in cross-border passenger train operations, exceeding 100,000 runs, driven by deeper integration between China and ASEAN.

Southeast Asian leaders are giving renewed momentum to plans for a unified electricity grid, a project envisioned since 1997, aiming for seamless energy flow across borders by 2045.

Manufacturers across the ASEAN region are reportedly shedding jobs as the economic repercussions of the Iran war continue to deepen, affecting regional industries.