ASEAN Ministers Convene in Manila Amid Global Crises

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened the 59th Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related summits in Manila from July 18 to 24, 2026. Under the theme Navigating Our Future, Together, the bloc focused on regional security, energy transitions, and the impact of global geopolitical instability.

A primary concern for the ministers was the resumption of open conflict between the United States and Iran. ASEAN issued a joint statement calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the restoration of safe transit in the Strait of Hormuz to protect global energy and food security. This urgency follows a national energy emergency declared by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in March due to oil and gas shocks.

Regional tensions dominated the agenda, particularly regarding the South China Sea. On July 20, the Philippines accused the Chinese Coast Guard of assaulting a navy member near Second Thomas Shoal. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the action and reaffirmed the 2016 arbitral ruling against Chinese claims, while China dismissed the allegations. Despite these frictions, the Philippines signaled openness to restarting joint oil and gas talks with Beijing.

Diplomats also held consultations on the Myanmar civil war and negotiated a proposed code of conduct for the South China Sea with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The gatherings included high-level participation from the U.S., China, Russia, and Australia, concluding with commemorative activities for the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.