ASEAN Foreign Ministers Convene in Luang Prabang to Boost Connectivity and Strength

The ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat Meeting (AMM) took place in Luang Prabang province, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Saleumxay Kommasith. The meeting's theme was "Increasing ASEAN connectivity and strength," and it saw the participation of ASEAN Foreign Ministers, a representative from Timor-Leste as an observer country, and the ASEAN Secretariat General.

Key topics discussed during the meeting included a review of the progress of the 43rd ASEAN Summit and other related summits held in September 2023 in Indonesia, as well as the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025. The meeting also focused on strengthening the ASEAN Community, its centrality, and resilience amid regional and international challenges.

One notable achievement was the promotion of the drafting of strategic plans for the ASEAN Political-Security Community, Economic Community, Social-Cultural Community, and Connectivity, which will be adopted in 2025. Additionally, discussions centered on the priorities for Laos' ASEAN chairmanship in 2024, emphasizing increased connectivity and strength in areas such as economic integration, sustainability, digital transition, culture, art, and public health.

The meeting touched on cooperation between ASEAN and the world, including potential partnerships with other countries. It stressed the importance of ASEAN's unity and centrality in dealing with external partners. The gathering also addressed upcoming important meetings, such as the special summit to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Australia cooperation and the ASEAN-EU Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

Overall, the AMM served as a platform for ASEAN member states to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, as they work toward enhancing ASEAN's connectivity and strength in the evolving global landscape.