ASEANEWS HEADLINE-ASEAN FUTURE FORUM | Subregional initiatives should align with ASEAN’s broader visions: Lao foreign minister
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ASEAN defence ministers pledge to boost cooperation as region faces rapidly evolving threats
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Laos’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane on Wednesday delivers a speech at the Plenary Session III during the second ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi, Vietnam.
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Stronger alignment between sub-regional initiatives and ASEAN’s broader strategic vision is needed, envisaging that closer cooperation will enhance trade, infrastructure, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability.
This was the key message delivered by Laos’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane when addressing the Plenary Session III titled
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“ASEAN Subregional Cooperation for Resilience and Sustainability” at the second ASEAN Future Forum in Hanoi on Wednesday.
In his address, Mr Thongsavanh underscored the vital role of subregional cooperation in driving economic integration, closing development gaps, and ensuring ASEAN’s collective resilience in an increasingly complex world and rapid global transformation.
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He highlighted that ASEAN’s success hinges on its ability to create a balanced and inclusive growth model, where no member state is left behind.
With geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic disruptions reshaping the global landscape, ASEAN should act decisively to strengthen its foundations and future-proof the region.
ASEAN’s subregional cooperation frameworks have been instrumental in fostering economic and social progress while addressing region-specific challenges.
Minister Thongsavanh noted that these mechanisms serve as crucial building blocks for ASEAN’s regional integration and long-term sustainability.
In addition, he highlighted several key initiatives including the Mekong Subregional Cooperation Frameworks, the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, and the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle.
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These initiatives have not only boosted economic activity within their respective regions but have also strengthened ASEAN-wide integration, ensuring that prosperity is shared equitably among all member states.
Mr Thongsavanh placed particular emphasis on the Mekong subregion, a region that has become a hub for international cooperation and economic collaboration.
He highlighted the impact of the Mekong River Commission (MRC), the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Initiative, Mekong-Lancang, Mekong-Japan, Mekong-US, and Mekong-Australia partnerships.
These strategic collaborations have improved infrastructure, expanded trade, boosted job creation, and promoted climate resilience, proving that subregional cooperation is not just a necessity but a powerful tool for sustainable progress.
To ensure that ASEAN leverages the full potential of subregional cooperation, Mr Thongsavanh outlined five strategic priorities in relation to aligning policies for greater synergy by strengthening coordination between subregional and ASEAN-wide frameworks to prevent duplication and maximise impacts.
He also advised enhancing infrastructure and digital connectivity through investment in infrastructure, digital transformation, and cybersecurity to drive seamless economic integration.
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Additionally, the bloc will need to foster green and inclusive growth by integrating climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable energy, and circular economy principles into development strategies.
At the same time, securing investment and financial support will necessitate partnering with international financial institutions, private investors, and development agencies to fund key projects.
Lastly, people-to-people links need to be fostered by expanding education, skills development, and cultural exchanges to deepen regional identity and cooperation.
Mr Thongsavanh reaffirmed Laos’ unwavering commitment to working with ASEAN member states and international partners to enhance subregional cooperation as a pillar of regional resilience.
“ASEAN’s strength lies in its unity and inclusivity. By reinforcing subregional cooperation, we can ensure sustainable growth, foster innovation, and build a future where no one is left behind,” he said.
As ASEAN navigates global economic shifts and environmental challenges, subregional cooperation will be a defining factor in the region’s ability to adapt, compete, and thrive.
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By Times Reporters
(Latest Update February 28, 2025)
