A flurry of global diplomacy is underway at the three-day ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting (AMM) held this week in Malaysia’s capital. Representatives from Southeast Asian countries and their key partners, including the United States, China and Russia, have convened to discuss pressing global issues, just days after US President Donald Trump extended negotiation periods for his so-called “reciprocal tariff” policy. 

Pressure has been mounting on ASEAN and its member states to adopt more agile and effective responses, with shockwaves from Washington’s economic policy and other geopolitical conflicts projected to present challenges to world stability. 

With most ASEAN economies bearing the brunt of US tariffs, ranging from 25 to 40 percent, the bloc has ramped up efforts to present a unified front in trade negotiations. Malaysia, as the current chair, has advocated for “[more] trade among ourselves, investment in one another and advanced integration across sectors.”

Indonesia, the region’s largest economy, hit with a 32 percent tariff, was represented by Foreign Minister Sugiono at the Kuala Lumpur talks. 

Read also: ASEAN to express 'concern' over Trump tariffs

In separate discussions with representatives from Japan, Australia, India, New Zealand and South Korea, Sugiono emphasized the need for deeper economic cooperation and a steadfast commitment to ASEAN Centrality in navigating what he described as “uncertain” geoeconomic waters.

Popular

Eruptions at Mt. Lewotobi Laki-laki cause air travel disruption

Uncertainty looms over northern Bali airport project

Strengthening legal certainty in the palm oil industry