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2026-08-10 06:36 UTC → 2026-08-22 12:46 UTC ·
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ASEAN foreign ministers meeting – Vietnam deepens 59th anniversary and expanding strategic ties
The Following the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila (20–24 July 2026) saw Vietnam take a leading role. Deputy Foreign Minister Dang Hoang Giang and Foreign Minister Le Hoài Trung presented four proposals to boost ASEAN solidarity, economic security, a people-centred “unity in diversity” and strategic autonomy amid great-power competition. Vietnam also steered the ASEAN–UK dialogue, producing the ASEAN–UK Action Plan 2027–2031 and welcoming the United Kingdom as the 28th forum participant. On the sidelines, Le Hoài Trung met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, agreeing to deepen the partnership and resolve the Section 301 investigation. He also met EU Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas to discuss Manila, the EU–Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement and green finance. Bilateral talks with partners including Australia, Canada, South Korea, and Japan focused on semiconductors, AI, and resilient supply chains. Following these meetings, ASEAN bloc celebrated its 59th anniversary under the theme "Navigating “Navigating Our Future, Together," highlighting Together.” Key milestones such as noted during the commemorations include the accession of Timor-Leste and the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. During As a collective economic unit, ASEAN’s GDP has reached over USD 4 trillion, establishing it as the commemorations, world’s fifth-largest economy. Strategic commitments from various partners have reinforced regional integration. Vietnam pledged to proactively shape regional rules and development trends. The bloc’s growing economic influence was noted, with a collective GDP exceeding USD 4 trillion. Other strategic developments included trends, while India reaffirming reaffirmed its "Act “Act East Policy" Policy” regarding connectivity, trade, and Cuba expressing intent to deepen economic cooperation with the region. defense. Turkey was also officially recognized as a new Dialogue Partner Partner, and Cuba expressed intent to enhance security deepen economic and trade cooperation. The Philippines, serving as the 2026 ASEAN Chair, emphasized priorities including regional security, maritime cooperation, and climate change response. Diplomatic activities extended to global celebrations, such as a gathering in Budapest and the illumination of the Qutub Minar in New Delhi. In Colombo, Sri Lanka, ASEAN representatives launched “ASEAN Gastronomy Week 2026” to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges. During these events, Sri Lanka expressed interest in becoming an ASEAN sectoral dialogue partner, a move supported by the participation of Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum ministerial meeting in the Philippines.