ASEAN

Myanmar’s military-appointed President Min Aung Hlaing is reportedly planning a state visit to Cambodia, his third to an ASEAN member since April, as part of a diplomatic push to normalize ties with the bloc, which excluded the junta over its failure to implement the Five-Point Consensus peace plan. Concurrently, he departed for Moscow to meet President Putin and attend an economic forum, deepening bilateral cooperation in defense, trade, and space. These moves aim to counter international isolation following the 2021 coup.

5 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 18, 03:57 AM UTC

On July 20, 2026, a Philippine Navy marine was struck on the head with a baton by Chinese coast guard personnel during a confrontation at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. Manila accused Beijing of aggression, while China claimed Philippine forces rammed their vessel and attacked with oars. The incident, captured on video, escalates long-standing territorial disputes and is expected to dominate ASEAN foreign ministers' meetings in Manila, with the U.S. condemning China's actions and reaffirming its defense treaty with the Philippines.

31 reports · 9 sources · Updated Jul 30, 04:04 PM UTC

Changpeng 'CZ' Zhao, co-founder of Binance, promoted a 'crypto passport' concept at the ASEAN Tech Summit Manila 2026 in the Philippines. The passport would allow crypto companies licensed in one Asian nation to operate across the region with simplified regulatory approvals, reducing duplicate filings and market-entry costs. CZ argued that recognizing work completed by other regulators could ease expansion for exchanges, custodians, and stablecoin providers. Currently, no Asian regulator or governance body has announced such a passport or target date. The comments come as Binance seeks more regulatory approvals across Asia, where digital asset laws vary by country. Bitcoin was trading at $62,950 at the time of reporting.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 02:44 PM UTC

Changpeng 'CZ' Zhao, co-founder of Binance, promoted a 'crypto passport' concept during the ASEAN Tech Summit Manila 2026 in the Philippines. The passport would allow crypto companies licensed in one Asian nation to operate across the region with simplified regulatory approvals, reducing duplicate filings and market-entry costs. CZ argued that recognizing work completed by one regulator could ease expansion for exchanges, custodians, and stablecoin providers. Currently, Asian countries have separate licensing and compliance requirements. No regulator or governance body has announced such a passport or target date. The comments come as Binance seeks more regulatory approvals across Asia. Bitcoin was trading at $62,950 at the time of reporting.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 02:44 PM UTC

The USS George Washington (CVN-73), the US Navy's only forward-deployed nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, has entered the South China Sea after transiting the Luzon Strait. The deployment comes amid escalating tensions between China and the Philippines over overlapping territorial claims in the region. Recent incidents include a July 20 clash at Second Thomas Shoal where Chinese Coast Guard officers struck a Philippine Navy SEAL, and water cannon attacks on Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal. The carrier strike group, including cruisers and destroyers, is conducting freedom of navigation operations. US Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton stated the deployment challenges excessive maritime claims. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed US commitment to treaty allies during an ASEAN meeting, noting a US Coast Guard vessel assisted in rescuing an injured Filipino sailor. The carrier previously participated in Valiant Shield exercises with Japan and is on a six-month deployment from Yokosuka, Japan.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 01:57 PM UTC

At the 21st East Asia Summit in Manila, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that international waterways must remain safe and unimpeded, condemning attacks on seafarers and civilian shipping. He called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Gulf crisis and a political solution to the Myanmar conflict. Jaishankar reiterated India's support for a legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea compliant with UNCLOS 1982, and for ASEAN centrality in the Indo-Pacific. He also announced India will host EAS events on maritime security and heritage. Separately, India's Ministry of External Affairs rejected as 'baseless and unwarranted' remarks by Pakistan's Deputy PM Ishaq Dar on Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty, accusing Pakistan of exploiting multilateral forums to spread disinformation and divert attention from its record on cross-border terrorism. India placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance after the 2025 Pahalgam attack.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 09:25 PM UTC

Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan stated that Singapore is actively working to convince the United States that it should not be a target of Washington's tariff policy, aiming to avoid becoming collateral damage. The remarks were made during a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila on July 23, 2026. The article highlights Singapore's diplomatic efforts to navigate US trade policy and protect its economic interests.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 02:49 PM UTC

Global oil prices surged past $105 per barrel after US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s peace proposal, labeling it unacceptable. The diplomatic breakdown has intensified fears of prolonged conflict and supply disruptions, particularly with the Strait of Hormuz largely closed. Saudi Aramco reported significant weekly oil losses due to the blockade. While equity markets remained mixed, energy volatility heightened concerns over global economic stability. The situation underscores the fragility of Middle East security, with analysts warning of further price hikes if the ceasefire completely collapses and shipping routes remain obstructed.

346 reports · 45 sources · Updated Jul 29, 07:05 PM UTC

On July 23, 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Manila for rare high-level talks on the Ukraine war. Lavrov reiterated Russia’s readiness for a political settlement based on prior US-Russia agreements, while complaining about Western arms deliveries. The 35-minute meeting, initiated by the US, yielded no breakthroughs but both sides agreed to continue contacts.

8 reports · 3 sources · Updated Jul 24, 02:00 PM UTC

On 19 July 2026, Russian forces attacked the civilian commercial vessel 'Golden Leo' in the Black Sea, killing 10 of 17 crew members, including four Indian citizens. India summoned the Russian Chargé d'Affaires and issued a strong protest, mirroring its response to a similar incident involving the US near Oman a month earlier. Despite the diplomatic friction, analysts assess that the incident will not undermine core India-Russia strategic ties, particularly in defence cooperation and discounted Russian oil imports. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit to convey 'strong concern' while discussing deeper bilateral cooperation. Russia defended the strike, claiming the vessel was transporting weapons for Ukraine.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 08:32 AM UTC

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) issued a joint statement expressing 'serious concern' over renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran, calling for an 'immediate cessation' of fighting across all fronts in the Middle East. The statement, released after the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, highlighted the conflict's 'immediate and long-term effects' on Southeast Asia, particularly on energy markets, supply chains, agricultural production, and food security. The ministers urged all parties to exercise restraint and restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for Asia's oil imports. The ceasefire agreed in April collapsed earlier this month, with both sides trading accusations. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN leaders that Iran's demand to control and toll the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous global precedent. The bloc's earlier statement explicitly blamed U.S.-Israeli attacks for the war, but the latest statement apportions responsibility more evenly.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 02:25 AM UTC

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) issued a joint statement expressing 'serious concern' over renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran, calling for an 'immediate cessation' of fighting across all fronts in the Middle East. The statement, released after the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, highlighted the conflict's 'immediate and long-term effects' on Southeast Asia, particularly on energy markets, supply chains, and food security due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The ceasefire agreed in April collapsed after mutual accusations of violations, leading to resumed U.S. air attacks and Iranian strikes on shipping. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN leaders that Iran's demand to control and collect tolls in the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous global precedent. The resumption of the war has undermined perceptions of U.S. reliability in the region, with ASEAN diplomats expressing dismay over Washington's failure to anticipate the economic fallout.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 02:25 AM UTC

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) issued a joint statement expressing 'serious concern' over renewed U.S.-Iran hostilities and calling for an immediate cessation of fighting across all fronts in the Middle East. The statement, released after the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, highlighted the conflict's 'immediate and long-term effects' on Southeast Asia, particularly on energy markets, supply chains, agricultural production, and food security. The ministers stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for Asian oil imports. The ceasefire agreed in April collapsed earlier this month, with both sides trading accusations. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN leaders that Iran's demand to control the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous global precedent. The article notes that the resumption of fighting has undermined perceptions of U.S. reliability in the region, with ASEAN diplomats expressing dismay over Washington's failure to anticipate the economic fallout.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 02:25 AM UTC

The foreign ministers of the Philippines and China exchanged strong protests following a confrontation at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved Philippine marines and Chinese Coast Guard personnel, resulting in a Filipino marine sustaining a head injury. The clash overshadowed the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila. Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro protested China's actions, while Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi accused the Philippines of provocation. Lazaro also condemned an AI-generated video by China Daily depicting Filipinos as a monkey. Wang warned that bilateral relations are at a 'crossroad' and urged the Philippines to avoid external manipulation. US Secretary of State Rubio raised the issue with Wang, reaffirming the US defense treaty with Manila. Quad and Canadian foreign ministers also expressed concern over the incident.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 12:51 AM UTC

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a 'fruitful and important' conversation with US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner about injecting new momentum into stalled peace negotiations to end the war with Russia. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's readiness for a 'peace with dignity' and said teams from both countries remain in close contact. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday in Manila, Philippines, on the sidelines of the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting, with the Ukraine and Iran wars expected to be the main topics. The negotiations, which have been mediated by the US, remain deadlocked as Moscow demands Ukrainian withdrawal from the entire Donetsk region, a condition Kyiv rejects. The war has continued for over four years with daily drone and missile attacks, while Ukraine has recently intensified counterattacks targeting Russian energy infrastructure and logistics.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:14 PM UTC

India joined its Quad partners (US, Australia, Japan) in calling for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific while reaffirming ASEAN's centrality, amid China's increasing military assertiveness in the South China Sea. The Quad foreign ministers met in Manila on July 22, 2026, attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. A joint statement reaffirmed commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and extended unwavering support for ASEAN unity and centrality. The ministers discussed regional challenges, maritime and transnational security, economic prosperity, critical technologies, and humanitarian assistance. They expressed opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force, grave concerns over export restrictions including critical minerals, and commitment to denuclearization of North Korea. The meeting followed up on outcomes from their previous meeting in New Delhi in May 2026.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 03:18 PM UTC

Security experts in Southeast Asia argue that the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran and the US are in military confrontation, is reshaping regional power balances more profoundly than the Ukraine war or Taiwan tensions. The strait, through which a fifth of global oil passes, is critical for energy-dependent Southeast Asian nations like the Philippines, which imports over 90% of its oil from the Middle East. Analysts note that even US treaty ally the Philippines is increasing Russian crude access, while Indonesia and Malaysia may follow. The crisis is blurring the line between economic and national security, weakening Washington's foothold and creating opportunities for China to expand influence without direct action. Russia may also benefit by reorienting its energy exports eastward, undermining Western sanctions.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:00 PM UTC

The article discusses the nearing completion of ASEAN's Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) and highlights Australia's opportunity to help shape its implementation and the next phase of digital growth in Southeast Asia. It argues that DEFA marks a new phase of engagement for Australia, which can contribute through research partnerships, digital governance expertise (including cybersecurity and social media regulation), and people-to-people links via initiatives like Aus4ASEAN and the New Colombo Plan. The piece emphasizes that DEFA's success will be measured by what businesses and individuals build with it, particularly the next generation of entrepreneurs and digital creators. It calls for DEFA to become a platform for deeper ASEAN-Australia digital partnership, fostering innovation, trade, and inclusive growth across the region.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:00 PM UTC

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Asian leaders at the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Manila that Iran's demand to control and collect tolls in the Strait of Hormuz would threaten global economy and freedom of navigation. Rubio stated that allowing a nation-state to control an international waterway and attack ships that refuse to pay would create a dangerous precedent that could repeat in other regions, including Southeast Asia. The meeting, attended by top diplomats from the U.S., China, Russia, and others, also addressed the resurgent war in West Asia. Rubio met with Quad partners (U.S., Australia, India, Japan) who issued a joint statement reaffirming commitment to maritime security initiatives countering China's influence. He also met Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, discussing regional issues, the Iran war, and a pending trade agreement to lower U.S. tariffs on Indian goods.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 11:56 AM UTC

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila on July 22, 2026, stating that stable India-China relations would foster a multi-polar Asia and world. He emphasized mutual respect and border tranquility as prerequisites for normal ties, noting recent normalization steps like resumed flights and the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. Separately, Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, expressing strong concern over the safety of Indian seafarers after four were killed in a Russian projectile strike near Odesa. He also joined Quad foreign ministers (Australia, India, Japan, U.S.) in reaffirming support for a free and open Indo-Pacific and ASEAN centrality, amid recent maritime tensions between China and the Philippines at Ren'ai Reef.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:28 AM UTC

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at the ASEAN-India Post-Ministerial Conference in Manila on July 22, 2026, described the global situation as 'extremely turbulent' and emphasized that no single nation or grouping can address challenges alone. He called for deeper India-ASEAN cooperation across trade, investment, mobility, technology, digital and AI, green sustainability, and connectivity. Jaishankar highlighted stress on supply chains, energy, food, and health security, and noted the importance of maritime trade and international law, coinciding with the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026. He urged both sides to navigate the transition together, representing 2 billion people, to ensure a safe and steady future.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:24 AM UTC

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran's demand to control traffic in the Strait of Hormuz sets a dangerous global precedent, as U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets for the 11th consecutive night. Speaking at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Manila, Rubio accused Tehran of not honoring the interim June 17 memorandum of understanding that halted military operations and established a 60-day negotiation window. He emphasized that freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle and that Iran has no right under international law to charge tolls or restrict shipping. The strikes targeted military operations centers, drone storage, and logistics infrastructure. Rubio also made a veiled reference to China regarding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. Iran and Oman issued a joint statement asserting coastal state sovereignty over the strait.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 04:48 AM UTC

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of an ASEAN meeting, as regional powers gather for the summit. Rubio stated that the United States remains committed to upholding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, a key point of contention between Washington and Beijing. The meeting comes amid ongoing tensions over territorial disputes in the region. The article, published by The Business Times Singapore on July 22, 2026, highlights the diplomatic engagement between the two major powers within the multilateral ASEAN framework.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:56 AM UTC

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of an ASEAN meeting, as regional powers gather for the forum. Rubio stated that the United States remains committed to upholding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, a key point of contention between Washington and Beijing. The meeting comes amid ongoing tensions over territorial disputes in the region, with the US seeking to reaffirm its presence and alliances in Southeast Asia. The ASEAN meeting provides a platform for dialogue between major powers and regional states on security and economic issues.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:56 AM UTC

The article analyzes the recent tragedy in the Andaman Sea where hundreds died, framing it as the world's deadliest sea crossing. It argues that ASEAN and its Dialogue Partners, particularly Australia, already have existing frameworks to prevent future disasters. Key recommendations include strengthening maritime cooperation for search-and-rescue and safe disembarkation, improving anti-trafficking measures by distinguishing forced migrants from criminals, and creating sustainable pathways for refugees through employment and education visas. The piece highlights Thailand's recent grant of work rights to 40,000 Myanmar refugees as a positive step. It calls for using platforms like the East Asia Summit and Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum to coordinate humanitarian responses, and for Australia to leverage its ASEAN-ACT program more effectively. The overall goal is to align with the ASEAN 2045 Vision of a people-centred region that leaves no one behind.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:00 PM UTC

Two boats carrying mostly Rohingya refugees capsized off the coast of Myanmar last week, with over 500 people feared dead in what is already the world's deadliest maritime migrant route. One in seven people attempting to cross the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal do not survive. Last year was the worst on record with 900 confirmed deaths, and 2026 is on track to be far worse. ASEAN foreign ministers are meeting in Manila this week with Dialogue Partners including Australia, presenting an opportunity for coordinated regional response. The lack of an agreed regional framework on displacement means ASEAN states treat refugees as a domestic security issue, leaving 3.9 million officially registered displaced persons without legal work or education access. Myanmar's ongoing conflict and persecution remain the primary drivers of displacement, with about a third of the population in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:00 PM UTC

Malaysia's CIMB Bank Berhad has launched CIMB Private Wealth, a new wealth management segment targeting affluent clients across ASEAN. The offering, part of CIMB's Forward30 plan, aims to double wealth assets under management by 2030. It will roll out in Singapore and Thailand before the end of 2026. The service combines institutional financial services, advisory support, and wealth products for capital growth, asset protection, and succession planning. Clients include high-net-worth individuals and business customers with cross-border financial needs. They will receive support from senior relationship managers and certified investment advisors, portfolio reviews, asset allocation guidance, and market updates from CIMB's chief investment office. Digital access is available via the MyWealth feature on CIMB's OCTO banking app. The package also includes premium privileges across CIMB's ASEAN network and benefits tied to the CIMB Private Wealth World Elite Card. CIMB Group consumer banking CEO Haniz Nazlan highlighted the 'great rewiring of wealth' in ASEAN and the need for trusted partners in wealth management.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:40 AM UTC

Malaysia's CIMB Bank Berhad has launched CIMB Private Wealth, a new wealth segment targeting affluent clients across ASEAN. The bank plans to roll out the service in Singapore and Thailand before the end of 2026 as part of its Forward30 strategy to double wealth assets under management by 2030. The offering integrates institutional financial services, advisory support, and wealth products focused on capital growth, asset protection, and succession planning. Clients will include high-net-worth individuals and business customers managing personal investments and cross-border finances. They will receive support from senior relationship managers and certified investment advisors, portfolio reviews, asset allocation guidance, and market updates from CIMB's chief investment office. Digital access is available through the MyWealth feature on the OCTO banking app, along with premium privileges across CIMB's ASEAN network and benefits tied to the CIMB Private Wealth World Elite Card. CIMB Group consumer banking CEO Haniz Nazlan highlighted the rapid evolution of wealth creation and intergenerational transfer in the region.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:40 AM UTC

Houthi rebels in Yemen announced a naval blockade of the Red Sea, opening a new front in the broader Iran conflict. Oil prices dropped slightly to $88.19 per barrel after rising earlier in the week due to geopolitical tensions. The US military continued airstrikes in Iran for the tenth consecutive night. Mediators including Qatar, Egypt, and Pakistan proposed a ten-day ceasefire. In Gaza, an Israeli airstrike killed a family of six, and satellite images revealed Israel is building a 23-kilometer earth wall dividing the coastal strip. The ASEAN foreign ministers called for an immediate end to hostilities across the Middle East. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been in place since October 2025, but violence persists.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:49 AM UTC

This opinion article from The Business Times Singapore argues that Indonesia is poised to become a major growth driver for Singaporean businesses. The author, Leslie Yee, suggests that a thriving ASEAN neighbor will significantly benefit Singapore's economy and its companies. The piece highlights the potential for increased trade, investment, and business opportunities between the two nations as Indonesia's economy expands. It positions Indonesia's growth as a strategic boon for Singapore, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the regional economies and the advantages Singaporean firms can leverage from Indonesia's development trajectory.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 07:59 AM UTC