The UK's new Foreign Secretary has made a significant diplomatic debut, affirming Britain's enduring partnership with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) amidst a volatile global landscape. Just two days into the role, they led the UK delegation at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, underscoring the government's commitment to bolstering ties with this crucial regional bloc.
During opening remarks at the ASEAN-UK Post-Ministerial Conference, the Foreign Secretary paid tribute to Vietnam's stewardship as country coordinator over the past year and acknowledged the Philippines' leadership as ASEAN Chair. Notably, their core message – one of unwavering commitment to ASEAN for the long term – aligns with both current and previous Prime Ministerial policies.
The meeting also marked a milestone: five years since the inception of the ASEAN-UK Dialogue Partnership. The Foreign Secretary highlighted notable progress made under the initial Plan of Action, including advancements in the ASEAN Power Grid, enhanced cooperation against online scams and organised crime, and strengthened ties in health security and education.
A new Plan of Action was formally adopted during the conference, charting a course for the partnership over the next five years. This move was accompanied by a joint statement on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which reaffirmed a shared commitment to international law and tackling common challenges. The Foreign Secretary underscored the growing importance of multilateral cooperation in areas such as maritime security, energy security, economic resilience, and emerging technologies – especially in today's increasingly unstable global environment.
The Foreign Secretary also addressed pressing international conflicts, acknowledging their profound impact on ASEAN partners. The ongoing crisis in Iran, for instance, was noted for its daily effects on economies and living standards across the region, as well as on seafarers. The UK welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding reached between the US and Iran in June but condemned subsequent attacks on shipping. The government pledged to work intensely with international partners to de-escalate the conflict, find a diplomatic solution, and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz – upholding the vital principle of freedom of navigation.
Furthermore, the Foreign Secretary reiterated Britain's continued support for Ukraine against Russia's aggression, framing it as a test of collective resolve. Following the UK Government's historic recognition of the State of Palestine, the plight of those in Gaza and the West Bank was also highlighted, with a commitment to working towards a just and lasting peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.