Marcos Commits to Strengthening ASEAN–Australia Partnership
During the 5th ASEAN–Australia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to enhancing economic and maritime relations between ASEAN and Australia.
He emphasized that the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairship in 2026 is an opportunity to deepen decades of cooperation aimed at regional peace and shared prosperity. Marcos commended Australia for being ASEAN’s first dialogue partner and a steadfast ally for over fifty years.
Source: East Asia Forum
Building on the ASEAN–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
Marcos highlighted the achievements made under the ASEAN–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, affirming that both parties remain committed to inclusive regional stability and development. The partnership is founded on trust and long-term collaboration to align national priorities with sustainable growth.
He expressed confidence that continued cooperation would help ASEAN evolve into a stronger hub of peace and innovation, with Australia providing enduring support through development initiatives and diplomatic frameworks.
Implementing the ASEAN–Australia Plan of Action 2025–2029
The president reiterated ASEAN’s commitment to the ASEAN–Australia Plan of Action 2025–2029, a roadmap designed to enhance cooperation in security, economy, and environmental sustainability. The plan prioritizes regional stability, free trade, and inclusive prosperity.
Marcos confirmed the Philippines’ full support for the strategy, emphasizing that it embodies ASEAN’s dedication to advancing development based on shared values, mutual respect, and coordinated action.
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Strengthening Maritime Cooperation and Regional Security
Marcos commended Australia’s active role in ASEAN-led mechanisms, particularly those focused on maritime security and conflict prevention. He cited forums such as the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) and the Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum as vital platforms for dialogue and regional capacity building.
He also praised Australia’s AUD64 million Southeast Asia Maritime Partnerships Initiative, which aims to enhance maritime safety and regional resilience. According to Marcos, this collaboration reaffirms both parties’ commitment to upholding a rules-based international order.
Expanding Trade Opportunities Through Regional Frameworks
Marcos underscored the importance of the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN–Australia–New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) in promoting business access to new markets and regulatory transparency. The updated agreement is expected to expand trade in e-commerce, sustainable goods, and small and medium-sized enterprise development.
He added that regional trade frameworks such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Regional Trade for Development (RT4D) initiative will further strengthen economic integration and long-term resilience.
Deepening People-to-People and Educational Ties
Marcos welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN–Australia Centre, which fosters cultural understanding, youth leadership, and the exchange of ideas. He said these initiatives would shape the future of ASEAN–Australia relations.
He stressed that sustainable partnerships depend on mutual understanding between peoples, emphasizing that youth collaboration and respect across cultures will sustain diplomatic and economic relations for generations to come.
Promoting Climate Action and Environmental Protection
Marcos expressed gratitude for Australia’s continued support of climate resilience and marine conservation, including programs such as the Climate and Clean Energy Window, which promotes clean energy adoption and biodiversity protection.
He called for greater support from Australia for the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, particularly in implementing the Post-2025 ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment aimed at promoting green growth and preserving regional ecosystems.
A Shared Vision for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
Marcos concluded his address by reaffirming that ASEAN and Australia share a unified vision for inclusive development, environmental stewardship, and regional peace. He emphasized that their partnership must continue to protect both people and the planet for future generations.
Looking ahead to the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026, Marcos remains optimistic that the ASEAN–Australia partnership will evolve into an even more dynamic alliance, strengthening regional prosperity, resilience, and stability.
