ASEAN promotes the role of Track II diplomacy for the region's strategic interests

On October 2, at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta (Indonesia), the second ASEAN Experts Group Meeting (ATTS) took place, bringing together leading experts from across the region.

The 2nd ASEAN Experts Group Meeting (ATTS). (Source: asean.org)

In line with Malaysia’s theme of “Inclusiveness and Sustainability” during its ASEAN Chairmanship, the conference discussed a range of pressing geopolitical and economic issues of significance to the region.

2025 is a key milestone in the regional community-building process, with the bloc adopting the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, ASEAN’s strategic direction for the next two decades. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the formal establishment of the ASEAN Community. These discussions are particularly timely as they take place ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit, which will take place from 26-28 October.

Speaking at the conference, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn stressed that strengthening cooperation with policy institutes and think tanks is in ASEAN’s strategic interest. The challenges facing ASEAN are cross-sectoral, multidimensional and rapidly changing, requiring new analytical frameworks and innovative responses. Therefore, expanding ASEAN’s engagement with Track II partners, academics and researchers is important.

In addition to ASEAN member states, this ATTS Conference also saw the participation of representatives from Timor-Leste and ASEAN’s external partners, demonstrating their commitment to promoting diverse perspectives, ensuring that ASEAN’s future is shaped by comprehensive and inclusive dialogue.

The conference included three dialogue sessions focusing on five common priorities to enhance ASEAN's regional cooperation and progress: Building digital trust for a secure and inclusive digital ASEAN; building a foundation for ASEAN's commitment to the sustainability agenda and green transformation goals; enhancing ASEAN economic integration; ASEAN's centrality and engagement with regional and sub-regional groups; ocean governance and maritime security.

The 2nd ATTS Conference was attended by nearly 100 delegates from ASEAN member countries and external partners, emphasizing the extensive regional and international engagement in promoting and facilitating Track II diplomacy and dialogue.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/asean-thuc-day-vai-tro-cua-ngoai-giao-kenh-ii-vi-loi-ich-chien-luoc-cua-khu-vuc-329715.html