Tue, 21-Oct-2025

Pakistan reaffirms desire to enhancing partnership with ASEAN

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar expressed Pakistan’s desire to enhancing its partnership with Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) in its quest for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.

“Let us take this opportunity to reflect on our shared achievement and renew our commitment to the principles that guide ASEAN’s Mission,” the Deputy PM said in his message on the occasion of ASEAN Day.

He said Pakistan remained steadfast in its support for ASEAN’s vision and looked forward to contributing to its ongoing success.

On the occasion, he felicitated Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn for his exemplary leadership and tireless efforts in advancing the ASEAN agenda.

“This day symbolizes the enduring spirit of unity and cooperation among the Southeast Asian nations. It is a privilege to celebrate this milestone alongside our ASEAN friends.”

Ishaq Dar said the Association stood as a model of regional integration and collective progress, demonstrating remarkable achievements in economic development, social cohesion, and diplomatic engagement.

He pointed out that Pakistan held in high regard the significant role ASEAN played in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity within the Asia-Pacific region.

The celebration of ASEAN Day not only reminds us of the vital importance of regional cooperation but also highlights the rich cultural diversity and historical heritage of the region.

He added that Pakistan’s relations with ASEAN were underpinned by a shared commitment to principles of mutual respect, non-interference, and constructive engagement.

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Gilani calls for further consolidating bilateral ties with Malaysia

Gilani

ISLAMABAD: Acting President Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani called for further consolidating bilateral ties with Malaysia for the mutual benefit of the two brotherly countries. Pakistan and Malaysia, he said, enjoyed cordial cooperation at all international fora, which needed to be further strengthened.

The Acting President expressed these views while talking to the Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob, who along with his delegation called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, the Acting President urged the need to further explore avenues of cooperation in maritime sectors for the mutual benefit of the two brotherly countries.

He expressed the hope that training and exchange programmes between the two navies would further cement naval cooperation between Pakistan and Malaysia.

The Acting President expressed satisfaction over the regular conduct of bilateral naval exercises and training collaboration between Pakistan and Malaysia. He appreciated the Royal Malaysian Navy for regular participation in AMAN exercises and emphasised the need for continuity of the same in future.

He stated that Pakistan was looking forward to the continued support of Malaysia for Pakistan’s bid to become the Full Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.

Earlier, the Acting President conferred the award of Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) upon Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob during a special investiture ceremony.

Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob is a close friend of Pakistan and has played a prominent role in promoting cooperation between the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Pakistan Navy.

The award was conferred upon him in recognition of his professional achievements and endeavours for strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the two navies.

The Acting President congratulated the Malaysian Naval Chief on receiving the award of Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) and appreciated his contributions towards increasing naval cooperation between the two countries.

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Philippines taps South China Sea amid tension, eyes “exploration issues” fix

Philippines taps South China Sea amid tension, eyes "exploration issues" fix

The Philippines seeks to resolve resource issues in the South China Sea. President Marcos acknowledges escalating tensions with a “more assertive China.” Manila stresses its right to utilize resources in the West Philippine Sea. To meet its energy demands, the Philippines is seeking to settle “exploration issues” in the South China Sea, according to President … Read more

Philippines courties rivals to craft code on South China Sea

Philippines courties rivals South China Sea

Philippines courties rivals to craft code on South China Sea. Ferdinand Marcos Jr expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress in reaching a broader. China acknowledged the importance of formulating a code of conduct. The Philippines has engaged in discussions with neighboring countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam to explore the possibility of establishing a separate … Read more

Governor Punjab advocates tackling climate change issues  

Governor
  • He was talking to participants of foreign diplomatic course.
  •  Governor said Pakistan exports top quality textile products.
  • Governor Punjab asked to take advantages of CPEC.

LAHORE: Governor Punjab Baligh-ur-Rehman has underlined the need of collective efforts to tackle the challenge of climate change.

He was talking to the participants of the foreign diplomatic course belonging to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries in Lahore.

He said that Pakistan exports top quality textile products in the international market.

The Governor stressed upon the Asian countries to take advantages of the Export Processing Zones established under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC).

He said that boosting cooperation with the ASEAN countries in political, education and tourism sectors will help bolster regional ties.

He said that strengthening of the people to people contacts is very necessary for the improvement of the relations among the countries.

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ASEAN FMs Meet in Jakarta to Discuss Regional Issues

ASEAN

Jakarta Hosts ASEAN Summit: “Epicentrum of Growth” Theme. ASEAN Leaders Discuss Future Challenges. Summit Spotlights ASEAN’s Economic Role. The 43rd ASEAN Summit and its associated meetings began in Jakarta on Tuesday, with a primary emphasis on positioning the region as a hub for economic development. During the opening ceremony, President Joko Widodo of Indonesia, which … Read more

Indonesia as ASEAN chair will step up talks on South China Sea code

Indonesia
  • Indonesia is prepared to host a round of COC negotiations this year.
  • Indonesia set up negotiations to finalize the code of conduct.
  • ASEAN nations have competing claims in the crucial waterway with China.

Jakarta: Indonesia aims to step up negotiations with China and other Southeast Asian countries to finalize a code of conduct (COC) for the disputed South China Sea, its foreign minister said on Saturday, as tensions in the vital waterway rise.

Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi was addressing in Jakarta at the conclusion of a conference of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the 10-member regional organization presided over by Indonesia this year.

“ASEAN’s outlook on the Indo-Pacific was central to the discussion,” she said. “We also discussed about the COC, the commitment of members to conclude the negotiation of the COC as soon as possible.”

Negotiations on the COC, a planned framework to aid in the resolution of territorial and maritime issues in the canal, have been deadlocked for years as some member states prioritize bilateral ties with China over regional consensus.

According to the foreign minister, Indonesia is prepared to host a round of COC negotiations this year, with the first taking place in March.

China claims sovereignty over practically the entire South China Sea based on its U-shaped “nine-dash line,” which the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague said in 2016 had no legal basis.

The Philippines allowed the US increased access to its military sites earlier this week, in part due to Beijing’s broad claims in the resource-rich maritime area.

ASEAN nations the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei all have competing claims in the crucial waterway with China.

Although Indonesia is not an official claimant, it has received criticism from China on its development of oil and gas deposits in the North Natuna Sea. The government sent a warship to the area last month to keep an eye on a lingering Chinese coast patrol craft.

On the sidelines of the event, Sidharto R. Suryodipuro, director of ASEAN cooperation at Indonesia’s foreign ministry, said that “new approaches” would be explored by all ASEAN member states and Chinese counterparts to achieve progress on the COC.

“What’s important is that all agree that this should be an outlook that is implementable and in accordance with international law,” he said.

Separately, ASEAN members concluded their talks by reiterating their support for the bloc’s five-point peace plan for Myanmar, which includes the end of hostilities and the beginning of a dialogue.

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Indonesia tells outsiders not to use ASEAN as ‘proxy’

Indonesia
  • Indonesia warned global countries.
  • Indonesia appealed for unity and progress on the Myanmar situation.
  • Southeast Asia’s largest economy is the 2023 chair of the (ASEAN).

JAKARTA – At the start of a two-day meeting of regional foreign ministers, Indonesia warned global countries not to use Southeast Asia as a “proxy” for their rivalries, while simultaneously appealing for unity and progress on the Myanmar situation.

Southeast Asia’s largest economy is the 2023 chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and will host the bloc’s annual leaders’ meetings later this year, which are regularly attended by China and the United States.

Disputes over the South China Sea have divided some ASEAN members against Beijing and increased sympathy for US opposition to China’s growing assertiveness, but others have backed the Asian superpower on other matters.

President Joko Widodo urged ASEAN ministers

According to Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, Indonesian President Joko Widodo urged ASEAN ministers in talks before Friday’s meeting that “ASEAN should not be a proxy for any party,” repeating a request he made during an ASEAN leaders’ conference in Cambodia last year.

Another topic that dominated discussions was the problem in Myanmar, which has been in upheaval since the army seized power in 2021.

The junta is still an ASEAN member, but it has been prevented from attending top-level summits due to a lack of progress on the bloc’s strategy to bring peace between the military and Myanmar’s anti-coup movement.

Myanmar’s foreign minister, Than Swe, was not present at the ASEAN discussions on Friday, owing to the bloc’s refusal to invite a junta member and instead preferring a “non-political representative” – an offer rejected by Naypyidaw.

There has been little progress on the “five-point accord” reached between ASEAN and the junta in April 2021, which called for an immediate cessation of violence and discussion between the military and insurgents.

But Widodo “emphasized that the five-point consensus of the ASEAN leaders should be the main agreement to assist the resolution of the problems in Myanmar”, Marsudi said.

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Generals from Myanmar are prohibited from entering ASEAN until the peace plan is implemented

Generals from Myanmar

The ruling generals of Myanmar will not be allowed to attend meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) The generals “must behave in a way that indicates progress is made, then we will be able to act on a decision The so-called Five-Point Consensus was reached with the army chief and coup leader … Read more

Bilawal discusses bilateral relations with Cambodian PM

bilawal cambodia

Bilawal called on Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen in Phnom Penh The foreign minister is on an official visit to attend the 29th ARF Ministerial Meeting Both agreed to intensify bilateral engagement and dialogue at all levels ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who is currently on a visit to Cambodia to attend the 29th … Read more

Bilawal departs for Cambodia to attend ASEAN ministerial meeting

Bilawal cambodia

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday left for Cambodia to attend the ASEAN ministerial meeting. The foreign minister will lead the country’s delegation at the 29th ministerial meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum (ARF)  being held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from August 4-6. In his pre-departure statement, Bilawal … Read more

China issues a warning to Asian states not to be exploited as “chess pieces” 

China

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi Wang says many countries in region were under pressure to take sides. He was addressing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) secretariat in Jakarta. Wang says he had told Blinken that both sides should discuss establishment of rules for positive interactions. Wang Yi, the foreign minister of China, stated … Read more

Dialogue with Suu Kyi ‘not impossible’ says Myanmar junta

Suu Kyi

Myanmar’s junta says talks with Aung San Suu Kyi are “not impossible”. Myanmar has been in turmoil since military overthrew her government. The Nobel laureate has been kept incommunicado by the military. Dialogue between Myanmar’s junta and ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi to end the bloody crisis unleashed by the toppling of her government … Read more

ASEAN envoy pleads to Myanmar junta to spare Aun San Suu Kyi prison

Suu Kyi

Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn will visit Myanmar later this week. A special envoy pleaded with junta not to imprison deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi. She has been on trial for at least twenty crimes since coup against her elected government last year. A special Southeast Asian envoy for the crisis in Myanmar pleaded … Read more

Pakistan briefs ASEAN conciliatory missions on CPEC

Foreign Affairs

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday facilitated a preparation on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for occupant conciliatory missions of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) part nations. Islamabad shared the basic vision of CPEC which tries to work on local availability, says Foreign Office. Led by the extra secretary (Asia-Pacific), the board of … Read more

EU condemns Myanmar’s ‘politically motivated’ Suu Kyi sentence

Myanmar

The European Union on Wednesday slammed a five-year prison sentence given by means of a Myanmar junta court to deposed civilian chief Aung San Suu Kyi at a “politically stimulated” trial. “It represents another step towards the dismantling of the rule of law and a further blatant violation of human rights in Myanmar and yet … Read more

Biden to host ASEAN leaders in mid-May

Joe Biden

United States President Joe Biden will meet in mid-May with Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders, with a likely focus on the rising power of China, the host country announced on Saturday (Apr 16). The summit, originally scheduled for March, “will demonstrate the United States enduring commitment to ASEAN”, White House press secretary Jen … Read more

US to host ASEAN leaders in mid-May

ASEAN

According to the host country, US President Joe Biden will meet with leaders of Southeast Asian countries in mid-May, with a likely focus on China’s expanding power. The summit, originally scheduled for March, “will demonstrate the United States’ enduring commitment to ASEAN,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement, referring to the … Read more

China’s Yunnan sees foreign trade up 16.8% in 2021

china trade

KUNMING: Foreign trade in southwest China’s Yunnan Province registered a 16.8-per cent year-on-year growth in 2021, reaching 314.4 billion yuan (about $49.4 billion), Kunming Customs said on Wednesday. The province’s exports rose 16.3 per cent year-on-year to 176.7 billion yuan in 2021, while imports gained 17.3 per cent to about 137.7 billion yuan. Trade between … Read more

ICCI for diversification of products, markets to boost exports

ICCI

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) urged the government to focus on diversification of exportable products and markets in order to boost the volume of exports, which would ensure achieving better economic growth of the country and address many economic woes. ICCI president Muhammad Shakeel Munir said that Pakistan was mostly relying … Read more

Designed to excel: China, ASEAN seek cooperation in industrial design

China

NANNING: The 4th China-ASEAN Industrial Design and Innovation Forum was held in Liuzhou City, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on Wednesday, organizers said. The forum aimed to further promote industrial design innovation and exchange between China and countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and establish a cooperation platform for scientific and … Read more

Pakistan to get benefits from $3 trillion Asean’s economy: envoy

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has huge trade and investment opportunities in the $3 trillion economy of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) for increasing the bilateral trade and economic ties. With Asean’s $3 trillion economic power and a large market of 650 million people in the region, the mutual $7 billion trade between Asean and Pakistan … Read more

Chinese Premier urges expedited negotiations of the COC

BEIJING: Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Tuesday said that China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries should expedite the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) negotiations and strive for its early conclusion. Li made the remarks when attending the 24th China-ASEAN Summit. He said that peace in the South … Read more

ASEAN kicks off series of virtural summits with Covid-19, economic recovery high on agenda

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kick-started its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the Covid-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said the ASEAN member states will take … Read more

Myanmar junta chief excluded from summit: ASEAN

Myanmar junta chief excluded from summit: ASEAN

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Myanmar’s junta chief will be excluded from an upcoming Asean summit, the group said Saturday, a rare rebuke as concerns rise over the military government’s commitment to plans on defusing a bloody crisis. Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agreed at an emergency meeting late Friday that Min Aung … Read more

ASEAN committed to upholding, promoting multilateralism 

ASEAN

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: ASEAN foreign ministers reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to upholding and promoting regionalism and multilateralism on Wednesday. According to a joint communique released by the 54th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, ASEAN foreign ministers believe that regionalism and multilateralism are important principles and frameworks of cooperation, and that their strength and value lie in … Read more

Pakistan to be special partner country at China-Asean expo

special partner

BEIJING: Pakistan, like previous year, will be the special partner country at the upcoming 18th China-Asean Expo (CAEXPO) to be held in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous of China from September 10 to 13. The Pakistan Pavilion will be established to display major export and cultural items, as well as print and audio-visual material on tourist … Read more

China-ASEAN trade skyrockets by 85 times in three decades

Trade between China and ASEAN

BEIJING: Trade between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has skyrocketed by 85 times since the two sides established their dialogue relations 30 years ago, official data showed. China has remained ASEAN’s largest trading partner for 12 consecutive years, said Ren Hongbin, assistant minister of commerce. In 2020, ASEAN also became China’s … Read more