ASEAN Centrality Crucial As Geopolitical Challenges Grow, Says ASEAN Spokesperson
By Nur Atiq Maisarah Suhaimi
MANILA, July 31 (Bernama) -- ASEAN Centrality is becoming increasingly vital as the regional bloc navigates a more complex geopolitical landscape and addresses emerging challenges, said Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial.
Imperial, who also serves as the Philippines' ASEAN spokesperson for its 2026 Chairmanship, said ASEAN Centrality remains the cornerstone of the bloc's engagement with its dialogue partners, enabling ASEAN to continue leading its own agenda through collective action.
“When we talk about ASEAN Centrality, it means bringing together the collective effort of ASEAN because only by acting together we will be able to address these challenges, whether it is the geopolitical landscape impacting the region or emerging threats affecting ASEAN,” he said in response to Bernama’s question during a special media conference with participants of 10th ASEAN Media Forum held at the Malacanang Complex, here on Thursday.
The two-day forum brought together journalists, media leaders and policymakers from all 11 member states to exchange ideas, strengthen collaboration and promote greater public understanding of ASEAN.
Elaborating, Imperial said the regional bloc remains guided by the principles of the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), which serve as the foundation for its engagement with dialogue partners.
“These will always be the lighthouse that will guide ASEAN when it comes to dealing with its dialogue partners,” he said.
He said ASEAN continues to lead discussions with its dialogue partners, focusing on mutual benefits for both the regional bloc and its partners.
“When ASEAN sits down with its dialogue partners, it is always ASEAN that will guide the agenda and lead the discussions when it comes to mutual benefits for ASEAN as a region and its dialogue partners in general,” he said.
He said Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro has consistently underscored the importance of ASEAN Centrality in her statements and engagements with fellow foreign ministers.
The Philippines holds the ASEAN Chairmanship 2026 under the theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together”.
-- BERNAMA
