Track II diplomacy refers to unofficial dialogues involving academics, researchers, think tanks, retired officials, business leaders and civil society groups, aimed at generating ideas, building trust and exploring solutions that official negotiators may not be able to pursue openly.

“In an era marked by heightened expectations and increasing uncertainties, but also persistent challenges, ASEAN must reinforce its commitment and capacity for engagement and uphold its central role in regional affairs and diplomacy,” he said in his opening remarks at the 2nd ATTS at the ASEAN Headquarters on Thursday.

The summit, organised by the Singapore Institute of International Affairs on behalf of the ASEAN Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ASEAN-ISIS Network), follows its inaugural edition last year and has drawn wider participation, with support from partners including Australia, Germany and Switzerland.

It focused on themes such as digital trust, sustainability, economic integration, ASEAN unity and maritime security.

Kao’s appeal comes as ASEAN advances key initiatives, including the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2045 that sets out a vision of a “Resilient, Innovative, Dynamic and People-Centred ASEAN,” and as Timor-Leste prepares to join as the bloc’s 11th member.

Economic integration is also high on the agenda, with ASEAN set to adopt the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area Upgrade 3.0, conclude its first Digital Economy Framework Agreement, update the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, and host the inaugural Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Leaders’ Summit in Kuala Lumpur this month.

-- BERNAMA