Discussions will focus on regional integration, the Myanmar crisis, and China’s controversial new map.
JAKARTA: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will lead Singapore’s delegation to the 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta from Sept 5 to Sept 7. The summit will address key issues, including the Myanmar crisis and heightened tensions over China’s new territorial map.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated that ASEAN leaders will discuss the bloc’s “continued relevance and centrality” in the evolving regional landscape, with a focus on strengthening integration and collaboration in areas such as the digital and green economies. Leaders will also exchange views on pressing international developments, including the ongoing Myanmar crisis.
Key Discussions on China’s Map
China’s recently published “10-dash line” map, which asserts claims over vast areas of the South China Sea, has triggered protests from ASEAN members including Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Chinese Premier Li Qiang will represent China at the summit, while Vice President Kamala Harris will attend on behalf of the United States.
ASEAN and China have agreed on guidelines to expedite negotiations on a code of conduct for the South China Sea. However, these talks have been stalled for years due to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite calls for international adjudication, ASEAN is continuing dialogue in hopes of a resolution, said Indonesia’s deputy foreign affairs minister Pahala Mansury.
Myanmar’s Exclusion
For the second consecutive year, Myanmar’s junta has not been invited to ASEAN’s summits or foreign ministers’ meetings due to the lack of progress on the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus for peace. The consensus includes ceasing violence and initiating dialogue among stakeholders, but progress remains slow.
ASEAN’s chair, Indonesia, has led extensive engagements with Myanmar stakeholders, although ASEAN leaders acknowledge that achieving peace remains a complex and challenging process.
PM Lee’s Role and Delegation
During the summit, PM Lee will meet with ASEAN leaders and external partners, including those from Australia, Canada, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. He will be accompanied by Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan and other senior officials. Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will serve as Acting Prime Minister in Lee’s absence.
The summit underscores ASEAN’s efforts to address regional challenges while maintaining its centrality in Asia’s evolving geopolitical environment.
