Deepen integration to navigate an uncertain world, PM Wong tells ASEAN leaders
Singapore, as incoming chair, will build on the progress in deepening integration and broadening partnerships.
On November 15, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed ASEAN leaders, warning that the grouping must brace for more uncertainty in an increasingly volatile world. Wong emphasized that ASEAN can navigate through these challenges by deepening integration, citing initiatives such as advancing digital integration, strengthening energy security, and broadening external partnerships.
During the first day of ASEAN Summit in Manila, the Philippines reiterated its commitment to advancing these fronts under its chairmanship, with Singapore, as incoming chair, building on these efforts. Wong also pledged cooperation with Thailand, the next chair, to ensure continuity in ASEAN's agenda. Reflecting on the May meeting in Cebu, Wong noted the region's history of successfully navigating difficult situations, such as those caused by the Middle East conflict and the Strait of Hormuz closure.
The November summit marked the signing of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (Defa), a three-year effort to deepen digital economic integration, with the goal of doubling the region's digital economy to US$2 trillion by 2030. Wong highlighted the need to link up the economies further to harness the benefits of the single ASEAN market, proposing the streamlining of cross-border transactions and strengthening regional coordination in tackling cyber threats and online scams.
To ensure a resilient digital economy, Wong commended the Philippines for leading efforts to strengthen cooperation against online scams and cyber offenses and called on member states to expand access to AI tools and capabilities to drive growth and productivity. ASEAN's growth potential is significant, with the region growing at 4 to 5% per annum, outpacing the global average.
To prepare for future growth, Wong stressed the importance of addressing rising energy demands and strengthening energy resilience. The recent energy disruptions in the Middle East underscored the importance of energy security, urging all member states to ratify the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement and prioritize the ASEAN Power Grid.
These agreements facilitate cross-border energy trade, lower transition costs, support renewable energy uptake, and unlock new business and investment opportunities. Finally, Wong emphasized the need to broaden ASEAN's network of friends and partners, building on recent milestones such as the 50th anniversary of relations with the United States, Canada, and the European Union, and the 30th anniversary of ASEAN Plus Three meetings with China, Japan, and South Korea.
Wong urged ASEAN to reject zero-sum competition and engage with all major powers to ensure a peaceful, open, and inclusive region.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
