Leaders affirm ASEAN role amid tensions

Bloc emphasizes unity to tackle global challenges, achieve shared prosperity

Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations stressed the bloc's 'indispensable role' amid rising geopolitical tensions and trade protectionism on the eve of the ASEAN Summit on Sunday.

"In this challenging environment, ASEAN's role is more indispensable than ever to safeguard the foundations of regional cooperation and sustain the hard-won peace and shared prosperity," said Kao Kim Hourn, ASEAN secretary-general.

Kao was addressing via video link the 2025 ASEAN Leadership and Partnership Forum, which was held ahead of the two-day 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.