Demonstrating its commitment to expanding external relations and advancing shared global priorities, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened a series of landmark trilateral meetings in Manila with key international partners: Türkiye, Norway, Switzerland, and Brazil.
The meetings underscored ASEAN’s proactive approach to building dynamic, cross-regional partnerships beyond Southeast Asia, reaffirming ASEAN Centrality as a cornerstone for promoting regional peace, economic stability, sustainable development, and mutual prosperity.
Key highlights and outcomes from the engagements include:
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Republic of Türkiye: Reaffirmed its strategic commitment as ASEAN’s newest Dialogue Partner. Both sides expressed shared enthusiasm for deepening political, economic, and institutional ties, laying a strong foundation for expanded long-term collaboration.
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Kingdom of Norway: Formally welcomed the entry into force of the Norway–ASEAN Practical Cooperation Areas Agreement (2026–2030). This pivotal agreement establishes an updated roadmap for deepened engagement, with focused collaboration in maritime affairs, the global energy transition, bilateral trade, and sustainable development.
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Swiss Confederation: Reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to ASEAN through enhanced collaboration in innovation, economic development, and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of technology-driven solutions to tackle global challenges.
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Federative Republic of Brazil: Highlighted its official aspiration to elevate its status to an ASEAN Dialogue Partner. As ASEAN’s sole Sectoral Dialogue Partner in Latin America, Brazil reiterated its dedication to bridging Latin America and Southeast Asia through expanded trade, agricultural cooperation, and climate action.
Together, these high-level discussions highlight ASEAN’s growing influence on the global stage and its steadfast dedication to building inclusive, multi-stakeholder alliances that address contemporary global issues while reinforcing a rules-based international order.
