India Urges ASEAN to Maintain Central Role Among Major Nations

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and leaders of ASEAN member states attended a retreat on global and regional issues on September 5, as part of the ongoing 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia.

During the event, PM Chinh emphasized the importance of maintaining ASEAN’s central role amid intense competition among major nations. He highlighted the need for internal unity, independence, self-reliance, and respect for the rule of law within ASEAN.

ASEAN must maintain a strategic balance with major countries and become a reliable bridge to regulate and balance relationships and interests. The bloc should also uphold its principled stance on issues related to regional security and development.

PM Chinh stressed the need for unity in ASEAN’s common stance on the East Sea (South China Sea) and urged partners to respect this stance. He emphasized the importance of self-restraint, peaceful dispute settlement, respect for international law, and the UNCLOS.

Regarding the situation in Myanmar, PM Chinh expressed support for proactive engagement to encourage peaceful dialogue and find a comprehensive and sustainable solution. He also pledged Vietnam’s cooperation with Laos, the future Chair of ASEAN, to advance the bloc’s goals.

PM Chinh and ASEAN leaders agreed to assist the Philippines in assuming the role of ASEAN Chair in 2026. Additionally, PM Chinh met with his Timor Leste counterpart to enhance bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and rice trade.

PM Chinh invited his Timor Leste counterpart to visit Vietnam, and both leaders reiterated their support and effective coordination in regional and international multilateral forums.

The ASEAN Summit continued on September 6 morning with the ASEAN 1 Summits with China, the Republic of Korea, and Japan.