ASEAN should focus on digital economy, energy resilience, broadening networks amid global uncertainty: PM Wong

In his speech at the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the need for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to focus on several key areas amid a world of increasing uncertainty. These areas include deepening cooperation in the digital economy, strengthening energy resilience, and broadening external networks.

Wong urged member states to prioritize seamless cross-border transactions and ratify the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA), as well as engaging external partners in the region's growth and security. He forecasted further turbulence and storms, yet expressed confidence that cohesion and unity would enable ASEAN to emerge stronger.

Wong highlighted the signing of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) as a testament to ASEAN's progress in deepening integration. He stressed the need for practical cooperation to fully benefit from the single ASEAN market, such as improving cross-border payments. He also advocated for harnessing artificial intelligence to boost economic growth and energy resilience, citing the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement.

Furthermore, Wong called for ASEAN to broaden its network of friends and partners, rejecting zero-sum competition and engaging with all major powers to ensure a peaceful, open and inclusive region. He expressed optimism about ASEAN's ability to navigate future challenges, citing the bloc's resilience in the past.