EU and ASEAN reinforce Strategic Partnership at 25th Ministerial Meeting in Brunei

The 25th EU-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting convened on 28 April in Bandar Seri Begawan, bringing together Foreign Ministers from the European Union and ASEAN to advance their longstanding partnership and address pressing global challenges.

Marking nearly five decades of dialogue relations, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to a rules-based international order, multilateral cooperation, and sustainable development. Ministers welcomed progress under the EU-ASEAN Plan of Action (2023–2027) and reiterated their ambition to further deepen the Strategic Partnership.

High Representative/Vice President Kaja Kallas said: “The European Union and ASEAN share an interest in regional stability and a strong rules-based international order. In such testing times for both, our discussions at the EU-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting underline why more cooperation and stronger partnerships is the best way forward.”

Ministers also conducted a comprehensive exchange on regional and global security developments. They reaffirmed their commitment to international law, including the UN Charter and UNCLOS (UN Convention on the Law of the Sea), and underscored the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. The EU and ASEAN also recognised that effective protection of critical maritime security requires a concerted and coordinated effort and encouraged enhanced cooperation through sharing best practices and responses, in accordance with international law.

Discussions also focused on strengthening economic resilience through enhanced trade cooperation, including green and digital transitions and more diversified supply chains. Both sides emphasised the importance of open, transparent, and sustainable economic engagement.

The European Union provided updates on its Global Gateway initiatives, highlighting ongoing and planned investments in sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, and digital connectivity across Southeast Asia. ASEAN welcomed these efforts as a contribution to inclusive and long-term regional growth.

Looking ahead to the 50th anniversary of EU-ASEAN relations in 2027, both sides expressed support for elevating cooperation further, including consideration of a future Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

More information: The European External Action Service.