ASEAN Opens High-Level Security Talks

The ministers of foreign affairs from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met in Manila for a three-day meeting that revolved around increasing regional and international security issues. This is following increased hostilities between the U.S. and Iran that pose fears of disruption of energy supplies, and South China Sea tensions that are destabilizing the region.

Middle East Conflict Dominates Agenda

Iran’s issue has been causing a great worry to the Southeast Asian nations due to their dependence on oil from the Middle East. The diplomats will need to call for an immediate ceasefire and the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz passage open, since this is an important oil passage in the world. This problem has caused a rise in the fear of rising fuel prices in the region.

South China Sea Remains a Flashpoint

It is also happening shortly after a major clash involving the Philippines' and China's naval forces in the South China Sea. Tensions have been heightened by this event and both nations have lodged protests against each other's actions. The member nations of ASEAN have remained persistent in their desire to see a Code of Conduct implemented to prevent future conflicts in the area.

United States and China in Focus

The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is participating in the conference and is supposed to conduct meetings with regional leaders such as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. It is believed that the meeting will revolve around maritime security, economic collaboration, and the strategic rivalry between both powers. The U.S. has restated its commitment to upholding the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, while China has asserted its extensive claim on the sea.

Why the Meeting Matters

ASEAN discussions highlight the increasing challenge in dealing with more than one crisis on the security front at once. It is the fine line that ASEAN has to walk between the dangers that exist within their territory and the greater ramifications on their economy due to the unrest in the Middle East. The outcome of these discussions, and further discussions with other key powers around the world, will shape the future of ASEAN’s foreign policy regarding security issues.

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