The 46th ASEAN Summit began on May 26 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is attending the two-day summit alongside leaders from nine ASEAN member states. Also present are the ASEAN Secretary-General and the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, who is participating as an observer.
Over the course of the summit, leaders will discuss ASEAN’s strategic direction in response to growing global uncertainty, protectionist trade policies, and pressure on multilateral cooperation. Prime Minister Paetongtarn has called for stronger economic integration, greater use of existing free trade agreements, and the completion of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement by the end of 2025 to boost regional competitiveness and resilience.
Key topics include improving health and food security, strengthening disaster preparedness, and addressing transnational threats such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, and environmental degradation. The Thai Premier also proposed closer cooperation in tourism and cultural exchange, including improved infrastructure and joint promotion of ASEAN’s shared heritage as a driver of economic growth.
Sustainability is prominently featured in Thailand’s position at the summit. As ASEAN’s coordinator on sustainable development, Thailand made clear its support for clean energy, green finance, climate adaptation, and digital transformation in line with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
The summit is scheduled to conclude on May 27 with the endorsement of nine key outcome documents, including the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and strategic plans across the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars.
Source: NNT
46th ASEAN Summit Kicks Off in Kuala Lumpur
