ASEAN is concerned that any move by the US to impose a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz could sharply escalate tensions and further disrupt global energy supplies, according to Thailand’s foreign minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.
Sihasak attended the second Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the situation in the Middle East today via videoconference. The meeting was chaired by the Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs in her capacity as ASEAN chair.
Sihasak said that ASEAN foreign ministers met in a special session to discuss the bloc’s response to the crisis, particularly its impact on energy prices, maritime security and food supply chains. They also voiced concern over the worsening situation in the Middle East.
The meeting discussed developments in the Middle East, especially the ceasefire and negotiations between the US and Iran, and called on both parties to pursue diplomatic means towards a permanent resolution of the conflict.
In a joint statement, ASEAN called for continued diplomacy and urged all parties, including the United States, Israel and Iran, to respect international law, especially freedom of navigation through key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
The ministers highlighted the importance of maritime security, the safety of mariners and those involved in the conflict, as well as the need to uphold freedom of navigation and overflight.
They also stressed the need for adherence to international frameworks, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), particularly in critical chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz.
Thailand stressed that safe passage through the strait is critical, as ASEAN economies depend heavily on oil shipments transiting the waterway.
Sihasak added that ASEAN is concerned that any move by Washington to impose a naval blockade could further inflame tensions.
He acknowledged that ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran have yet to yield results, citing deep mistrust and the complexity of the issues, but expressed hope that talks would continue.
On the economic front, Sihasak warned that rising energy prices are already affecting ASEAN economies and increasing the cost of living. He said that the situation highlights the need for stronger regional cooperation.
The ministers discussed measures to address the multifaceted impacts of the conflict, including strengthening ASEAN mechanisms on energy and food security.
On energy, they called for expedited ratification of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement for early implementation,
strengthening of the ASEAN Power Grid and the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline, and the mobilization of investment in renewable energy to accelerate the transition, particularly in solar power and biofuels.
On food security, they discussed expanding the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve mechanism to cover other essential food commodities, and the promotion of cooperation along the entire food production chain.
The ministers also discussed improvements to the bloc’s institutional capacity, to respond more quickly to international crises, with Vietnam proposing new frameworks to streamline decision-making.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for the ASEAN Summit to be held in Cebu, Philippines, on May 7 and 8.
Thai PBS World has reported that the chair has scaled down plans for the 48th ASEAN Summit next month, as well as its activities for the rest of its chairmanship.
