On October 9, 2024, ASEAN leaders met in Laos to address the ongoing crisis in Myanmar and tensions in the South China Sea. The summit included discussions on cooperation among its ten member states and dialogues with global powers. U.S.-China relations and Myanmar’s humanitarian crisis were central topics, revealing challenges in ASEAN’s effectiveness and unity amidst shifting global dynamics.
On October 9, 2024, leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened in Vientiane, Laos, for their annual summit, where they focused on two pressing issues: the ongoing civil war in Myanmar and the territorial disputes in the South China Sea. These challenges have significantly impacted ASEAN’s reputation as a collaborative bloc. In addition to discussions among the ten ASEAN member states—Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei, and Laos—the summit included interactions with major global powers such as China, the United States, and Russia. Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone encouraged new leaders from Thailand and Singapore, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration among ASEAN members. He stated, “We help one another, and work together the ASEAN way.” Significant developments included the participation of Thailand’s youngest leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Singapore’s Lawrence Wong, and Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, amidst ongoing leadership transitions in their respective countries. Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo delegated his Vice President Ma’ruf Amin to the summit, and Japan’s new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba attended his first overseas meeting at this forum. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken represented President Joe Biden, emphasizing the importance of U.S.-China relations amid rising tensions due to China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea. As noted by Dan Kritenbrink, a senior U.S. diplomat, ongoing territorial disputes and related tensions among China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei were key agenda items, with a consensus that clear resolutions remain unlikely given the delicate balance of interests among ASEAN nations. Moreover, serious concerns dominate the agenda regarding the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, where continued violence and political unrest have displaced millions and led to thousands of casualties since the military’s takeover in February 2021. Although Myanmar’s junta has consented to an ASEAN peace plan, the lack of compliance raises doubts about substantial progress. The inclusion of Myanmar’s Foreign Ministry permanent secretary at the summit, Aung Kyaw Moe, highlights ASEAN’s attempt to engage amidst criticisms that they are showing fatigue in handling this crisis. In December, Thailand is set to organize an informal consultation focused on the Myanmar situation. However, clarity regarding Myanmar’s representation at this meeting remains uncertain, suggesting challenges in fostering regional cooperation on this front. Critics argue that allowing a representative from Myanmar at this summit might indicate ASEAN’s waning resolve to effectively address the crisis, as stated by Lina Alexandra from Indonesia’s Centre for Strategic and International Studies. As the summit progresses, ASEAN’s foundational aim of maintaining regional stability and cooperation remains under scrutiny, calling for both diplomatic engagement and a reaffirmed commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the region.
The ASEAN summits serve as critical platforms for Southeast Asian leaders to discuss pressing regional issues and enhance cooperation among member states. This year’s summit comes amid severe humanitarian crises, particularly in Myanmar, where political turmoil has resulted in a significant loss of life and widespread displacement. Furthermore, the South China Sea remains a contentious point, with increasing assertiveness from China challenging the sovereignty of several ASEAN members. The complexity of these issues highlights ASEAN’s historical challenges regarding its influence and effectiveness in regional diplomacy, particularly when balancing relations with larger global powers.
The ASEAN summit in Vientiane underscores the complexities and pressing challenges facing Southeast Asia, particularly the crises in Myanmar and the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Despite the participation of new leadership and global powers, the efficacy of ASEAN in resolving these issues remains in question. The necessity for cohesive action among member states and commitment to a unified stance is evident as the bloc endeavors to address its credibility concerns on the international stage.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
