ASEAN must grow with less emissions, look to external partners to finance regional power grid: PM Wong

“Unfortunately, there has been no political progress and in fact the fighting in Myanmar has worsened,” said Mr Wong.

Noting that the conflict is really a domestic situation, he said: “We have to be realistic about what ASEAN can do, and at the same time, patient and steadfast in pursuing efforts towards peaceful resolution.”

He said the rest of ASEAN cannot afford to go back to business as usual with Myanmar and should maintain its positions towards the country, especially on its non-political representation at summits and foreign ministers’ meetings.

Mr Wong said that moving forward, ASEAN needs to effectively integrate Timor-Leste, and fully support its efforts to fulfill a roadmap that had been agreed for its accession to the bloc.

FIRST ASEAN SUMMIT

Mr Wong, who became prime minister in May, thanked his fellow leaders for a warm welcome to his first ASEAN summit.

“ASEAN has been critical to the peace, stability, and growth of our region. So ASEAN will remain a cornerstone of Singapore’s foreign policy,” he said.

He said the bloc needs to ensure continued peace and stability in the region, by continuing to keep the architecture of the region open and inclusive and to engage all external parties.

“Our partners must commit to inclusivity, respect for international law, and the peaceful resolution of disputes,” added Mr Wong.

The opening ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits took place on Wednesday at the National Convention Centre in the Laotian capital.

Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and President Thongloun Sisoulith gave speeches during the ceremony. Attendees were treated to dance performances, and Southeast Asian leaders also took the traditional group photo on stage.