rki.news
Manila, May 08 – Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agreed to strengthen regional energy and food security during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Manila amid rising global oil and commodity prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos said ASEAN leaders emphasized the importance of stable energy supply chains stronger regional cooperation and greater investment in renewable and alternative energy sources.
The summit also highlighted the need for the quick ratification of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement aimed at protecting member states and improving regional energy stability during periods of crisis.
Leaders further supported the operationalization of the ASEAN Power Grid a major regional project designed to improve cross-border electricity connectivity and allow Southeast Asian nations to share energy resources more efficiently.
Food security was another key issue discussed at the summit. ASEAN leaders agreed to maintain open markets ensure the uninterrupted movement of essential goods and strengthen intra-ASEAN trade cooperation to avoid supply disruptions.
The leaders also called for the swift approval of the upgraded ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement aimed at promoting a more resilient digital and sustainable regional trading system.