The 47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting on August 10 issued a joint communiqué on its outcomes. Following is the full text of the Communiqué.
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| ASEAN Foreign Ministers and ASEAN Secretary-General Le Luong Minh (1st from the right). Photo: qdnd.vn |
Joint Communiqué
47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
8 August 2014
Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
1. We, the Foreign Ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), met on 8 August 2014 at the 47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. His Excellency U Wunna Maung Lwin, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar chaired the Meeting. We had fruitful deliberation under the theme “Moving forward in Unity to a Peaceful and Prosperous Community”.
Realising an ASEAN Community
2. We are encouraged by the adoption of the Nay Pyi Taw Declaration on the Realisation of the ASEAN Community by 2015 at the 24th ASEAN Summit held in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar on 10-11 May 2014, which provided policy guidance to ensure the successful establishment of the ASEAN Community by 2015. We welcomed the progress of implementation of the Roadmap for an ASEAN Community (2009-2015) and reiterated our continued commitment for the realisation of a politically cohesive, economically integrated, socially responsible, people-oriented, people-centred ASEAN Community by 2015 and beyond.
ASEAN Community’s Post-2015 Vision
3. We welcomed the progress of work by the ASEAN Coordinating Council Working Group on the ASEAN Community’s Post-2015 Vision in formulating the ASEAN Community’s post-2015 vision. We welcomed the submissions by all ASEAN Member States of their proposed central elements of the ASEAN Community’s post-2015 vision and looked forward to the ACCWG’s recommendations on the central elements to be submitted to the 25th ASEAN Summit through the 15th Meeting of the ASEAN Coordinating Council.
ASEAN Charter
4. We reaffirmed our commitment to undertake all necessary measures to effectively implement the ASEAN Charter which provides the legal and institutional framework for the community building and integration process as well as for ASEAN to be a rules-based organisation. We welcomed ASEAN Member States’ efforts in carrying out internal procedures to ratify outstanding legal instruments under the ASEAN Charter, and we encouraged the ratification of ASEAN agreements by all ASEAN Member States. We welcomed the recent ratification of the Protocol to the ASEAN Charter on Dispute Settlement Mechanisms and the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations by Cambodia.
Promoting ASEAN’s Principles, Norms and Values
5. We agreed to maintain and promote ASEAN as a flag-bearer for regional norms of good conduct, through the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), the Treaty for the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ Treaty), the Declaration of the East Asia Summit on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations, and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) which have gained strong support from external partners both within and outside the region.
ASEAN’s Centrality
6. Recognising the rapidly changing regional strategic landscape, we underscored the importance of strengthening ASEAN’s unity and cohesiveness in advancing our collective regional interests in order to preserve ASEAN’s centrality in the regional architecture. We will continue to further enhance ASEAN’s common voice in matters of common interest and concern, particularly issues related to regional peace, stability, security, and development. In this regard, we welcomed the constructive and fruitful discussion on strengthening ASEAN Centrality at the Special ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting on ASEAN Centrality in Ha Noi on 26-27 June 2014.
7. To maintain ASEAN’s credibility as a key regional and international player, we agreed to raise the role of ASEAN in the international arena through the implementation of the Bali Concord III Plan of Action (2013-2017). We agreed that ASEAN can demonstrate its centrality and leadership in the evolving regional architecture by effectively responding to existing and emerging challenges, and by being proactive in engaging Dialogue Partners and other external parties.
Narrowing the Development Gap and Initiative for ASEAN Integration
8. Recognising that seamless regional integration and full enjoyment of shared benefits is essential for the success of the ASEAN Community, we agreed to redouble our efforts of Narrowing Development Gap (NDG) among ASEAN Member States. In this respect, we expressed our support for the full implementation of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan II (2009-2015) and tasked our officials to initiate work on developing the Post-2015 work plan for the IAI as decided by our Leaders at 24th ASEAN Summit. We further looked forward to the outcomes of the IAI Task Force’s deliberation on its recommendations with a view to identifying concrete practical actions and programmes to effectively support CLMV’s integration efforts. In this regard, we welcomed the continued support and assistance by the ASEAN Member States and ASEAN Dialogue Partners as well as other external partners in the efforts to contribute towards a full regional integration in ASEAN. We also emphasised the importance of enhancing our work on an ASEAN Framework for Equitable Economic Development (AFEED).
9. We acknowledged the achievements made by relevant sub-regional initiatives such as the Greater Mekong Sub region (GMS), the Indonesia – Malaysia – Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), Cambodia-Laos-Myanmar-Viet Nam (CLMV) and Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam (CLV) Development Triangle. We further welcomed closer collaboration between relevant sub-regional mechanisms in the region, including the Lower Mekong Initiative (LMI), Friends of the Lower Mekong Initiative (FLMI), the Mekong-Japan, Mekong-Korea, Mekong-Ganga Cooperation and Ayeyawady-ChoPhraya Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS). We also encouraged sharing of experience regarding the development and sustainable utilisation of water resources between countries in Danube and Mekong regions.
Enhancing efficiency and coherence of ASEAN institutions
10. We noted with satisfaction the progress of work of the High Level Task Force (HLTF) on Strengthening the ASEAN Secretariat and Reviewing the ASEAN Organs. This should ensure improved efficiency and coordination of ASEAN organs and bodies together with deepened ASEAN’s external relations and a strengthened ASEAN Secretariat in accordance with the ASEAN Charter and other ASEAN decisions, which would enable the ASEAN Community to cope with the existing and emerging challenges facing the region. We encouraged the HLTF to be bold in their recommendations, and looked forward to the HLTF’s recommendations to the 15th ASEAN Coordinating Council Meeting (15th ACC) later this year.
ASEAN POLITICAL-SECURITY COMMUNITY
11. Recognising that regional peace and stability was a precondition for growth and an important factor in ASEAN’s future, we reaffirmed our commitment to enhance our efforts in political and security cooperation to contribute to the peace and security of individual ASEAN Member States as well as for the whole ASEAN Community.
Implementation of the ASEAN Political-Security Community Blueprint
12. We welcomed the significant progress in the implementation of the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Blueprint which aims to promote peace and security in the region by elevating ASEAN’s political and security cooperation to a higher plane. We agreed to intensify work on the remaining action lines under the APSC Blueprint. We commended the efforts of ASEAN Member States to expedite the implementation of the APSC Blueprint by volunteering to lead and co-lead the remaining action lines. We also encouraged relevant sectoral bodies to expedite the completion of on-going action lines under their purview.
Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia
13. We recognised the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) as the key code of conduct governing inter-state relations in Southeast Asia and provided a foundation for the maintenance of regional peace and stability. We welcomed the growing interest of other non-ASEAN Member States to accede to the TAC, and agreed to consider new applications in accordance with the Revised Guidelines for Accession to the TAC. We reaffirmed the importance of further upholding the principles enshrined in the TAC, which aim to promote perpetual peace, everlasting amity and cooperation among its parties, thus contributing to our strength, solidarity and closer relationship among the peoples of the region.
Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone
14. We stressed the importance of strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament regime to maintain peace, security and prosperity in the region. We reaffirmed our commitment to preserve Southeast Asia as a nuclear weapon–free zone and free of all other weapons of mass destruction as enshrined in the ASEAN Charter. We further reaffirmed our commitment to uphold the SEANWFZ Treaty. We underlined the importance of full and effective implementation of the SEANWFZ Treaty and the Plan of Action to Strengthen the Implementation of SEANWFZ Treaty (2013-2017) which was adopted by the ASEAN Foreign Ministers on 30 June 2013.
15. We reiterated our commitment to work closely with the Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) on the early signing and ratification of the Protocol to the SEANWFZ Treaty without reservations by NWS. We also acknowledged the need to work closely with the NWS to address our concerns over the NWS’ proposed reservations to the Protocol to the SEANWFZ Treaty.
16. To support the realisation of the objective of the SEANWFZ Treaty and ASEAN Charter, we envisaged the significance of the full adherence of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) in the region. Therefore, as an essential step to achieve it, we stressed the vital importance of ratification of the CTBT by all ASEAN Member States as soon as possible.
Cooperation between ASEAN and the International Atomic Energy Agency
17. Recognising the central role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in nuclear non-proliferation and the promotion of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, we agreed to explore ways to formalise relations between ASEAN and the IAEA.
Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in ASEAN
18. Underlining the importance of fostering the development and well-being of our peoples, we reaffirmed our commitment to promote and protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of peoples in the region in accordance with the principles of the ASEAN Charter, the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration (AHRD) and the ASEAN Leaders’ Phnom Penh Statement on the Adoption of the AHRD. We noted the 2014 annual report of the AICHR and welcomed the progress of work undertaken by the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), the overarching human rights institution in ASEAN, including in the dissemination and implementation of the AHRD, which contributes actively to the building of the ASEAN Community. We commended the efforts of the AICHR on its various programs and activities and encouraged it to work in close consultation, coordination and collaboration with the ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, engage in dialogue with other ASEAN bodies and entities associated with ASEAN as well as consult, as may be appropriate, with other relevant institutions, external partners and entities concerned with the promotion and protection of human rights.
19. We welcomed the completion of its Thematic Study on Corporate Social Responsibility and Human Rights in ASEAN and noted the progress made at the first Coordination Meeting for the AICHR Thematic Study on the Right to Peace held on 18 July 2014 in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. We also welcomed the Workshop on Human Rights, Climate Change and the Environment, which would be held in Myanmar and the workshop with ASEAN Sectoral Bodies concerned on Comparative Law Studies, which is expected to be held in Vientiane this year.
20. Cognizant of the fact that the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the AICHR shall be initially reviewed five years after its entry into force by the ASEAN Foreign Ministers, we reiterated our commitment to review the TOR of the AICHR with a view to further enhancing the promotion and protection of human rights in ASEAN.
21. We recognised the progress of work by the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC) in implementing the ACWC Work Plan 2012-2016. We welcomed the progress on the implementation of the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Elimination of Violence Against Children in ASEAN which was adopted by the Leaders at the 23 rd ASEAN Summit in October 2013. We noted the convening of a training course in Singapore on 8-10 April 2014 for frontline ASEAN social workers who work with women and children victims of violence, so as to arm participants with new skills and training to help them push back the wall of violence and make a positive difference to those they serve in their home countries.
22. Acknowledging that human rights is a cross-cutting issue, we encouraged enhanced coordination and consultation among AICHR, the ACWC and other relevant sectoral bodies to further promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of the peoples of ASEAN. Mindful of the structure of AICHR as an overarching human rights institution in ASEAN, we tasked the ASEAN Secretariat to extend full support to the AICHR as it endeavors to promote and protect human rights in ASEAN.
Promoting Good Governance, Democracy and the Rule of Law
23. We commended the activities being undertaken under the purview of the ASEAN Conference on Civil Service Matters (ACCSM), including activities to promote transparency, accountability, participatory and effective governance which reflect our commitment to the Rule of Law. We welcomed the convening of the Regional Workshop on Elections as a Means to Promote Democracy and Security in ASEAN: Experiences and Best Practices as well as the meeting of the research team on experiences and lessons learned from the practice of democracy held on 7-9 July 2014 in Jakarta . The Regional Workshop served as a forum for the discussion of experiences and best practices in the holding of elections in a professional, non-partisan and transparent manner and how the convening of elections in such manner can promote democracy and security in ASEAN. We looked forward to the convening of other activities regarding the promotion of the democratic principles.
ASEAN Security Outlook
24. We welcomed the first annual publication of the ASEAN Security Outlook (ASO) in 2013 which we believed would contribute to the promotion of transparency in security-related policies and complement ASEAN’s confidence building efforts in the region. We looked forward to its second publication later this year.
ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation
25. We welcomed the progress of work of the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (AIPR), especially the outcomes of the second meeting of Governing Council of the AIPR and the first meeting of the Advisory Body of the AIPR in Bali in April 2014, and appreciated their efforts to fully operationalise the AIPR. We welcomed the holding of the AIPR Symposium on Peace and Reconciliation Processes and Initiatives in Manila, the Philippines, on 7-8 April 2014 and the Symposium on Peace and Reconciliation: Principles and Best Practices in Bali, Indonesia on 22-23 April 2014. To fulfill its role, we encouraged the AIPR to engage relevant stakeholders, including the civil society, to promote peace, reconciliation, conflict management, conflict resolution, and peace-building. We also encouraged the AIPR to collaborate with relevant regional and international think-tanks.
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre
26. We welcomed the efforts towards the operationalisation of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre (ARMAC) which serves as a regional centre of excellence in addressing the humanitarian aspects of the explosive remnants of war (ERW) for interested ASEAN Member States. With a view to implementing the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on the Establishment of the ARMAC, ASEAN Member States are invited to nominate their representatives to the Steering Committee of ARMAC as early as possible in accordance with the TOR of ARMAC which was adopted at the 23rd ASEAN Summit on 9 October 2013 in Brunei Darussalam.
Maritime Cooperation
27. Acknowledging the significance of shipping and maritime trade for countries in the region, we stressed the importance of greater cooperation and coordination to ensure peace, stability, safety of sea-lanes, freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce, maritime security and maritime safety as well as the sustainability of the marine environment in the region. In this respect, we emphasised the need to make full use of the existing ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)/ADMM-Plus, ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF)/Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF), and ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) to enhance cooperation and promote mutual trust and understanding.
28. Given the broad, multi-dimensional and complex nature of maritime issues, we acknowledged the importance of the AMF as a value-added forum for dialogue and coordination among concerned agencies in order to address regional maritime issues in a holistic and integrated manner. In this respect, we commended the AMF’s efforts in identifying the scope of action and future work to avoid duplication of work among sectoral bodies under all three pillars of the ASEAN Community. We also stressed the importance of the EAMF as a platform for ASEAN and its dialogue partners to discuss maritime-related issues across the political, economic, and socio-cultural pillars while promoting practical actions. We welcomed the convening of the fifth ASEAN Maritime Forum and the third Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum on 26-28 August 2014 in Viet Nam.
Defence and Security Cooperation
29. We were satisfied with the progress of defence cooperation under ASEAN within the ADMM, between ASEAN and its Dialogue Partners under the ADMM Plus, and the ASEAN Security Policy Conference (ASPC) as well as the Defence Officials’ Dialogue under the ambit of the ARF. We expressed our support on the outcomes of the 8th ADMM held on 20 May 2014 in Nay Pyi Taw, including, among others, the adoption of the ADMM Three-Year Work Programme 2014-2016, the operationalisation of the ASEAN Defence Industry Collaboration (ADIC), the adoption of the Concept Paper on the Establishment of Direct Communication Link in the ADMM process, and the adoption of the Additional Protocol to the Concept Papers for the Establishment of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus.
30. We emphasised the importance of defence and military-to-military cooperation to build mutual trust and confidence. We noted the good progress of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus’ action-oriented efforts to advance practical cooperation amongst our militaries. We looked forward to further progress in practical cooperation led by the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Groups.
ASEAN Regional Forum
31. Recognising the continued progress and increasing role of the ARF as the primary forum to foster constructive dialogue and consultation on political and security issues of common interest and concern in the Asia-Pacific region, we expressed our commitment to work with participating partners to further strengthen the ARF process. We reaffirmed the importance of a phased approach to the ARF process, moving from Confidence Building Measures, Preventive Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution at a pace comfortable to all to address common regional challenges. In this regard, we supported the efforts of the ARF Inter-sessional Support Group on Confidence-Building Measures and Preventive Diplomacy and the ARF SOM in, inter alia, reviewing and making recommendations on the implementation of the Ha Noi Plan of Action to Implement the ARF Vision Statement. This will also help the ARF cooperation process become more action-oriented so that it can effectively contribute to enduring peace and stability in the region. We expressed our support to advance the ARF process to its second stage, through the implementation of action-oriented, practicable preventive diplomacy activities, including the Work Plan on Preventive Diplomacy. We welcomed the ARF’s work in Disaster Relief, Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime, Non-proliferation, and Disarmament and Maritime Security issues. We underscored the need for the ARF to continue pursuing synergy and effective coordination with the ADMM-Plus and other ASEAN-led mechanisms.
Non-traditional security issues
32. Recognising that greater regional integration brings additional challenges, we reaffirmed our resolve to respond to non-traditional security issues in an effective and timely manner, particularly in combating transnational crimes and trans-boundary challenges. In this regard, we welcomed the outcomes of the 8 th AMMTC held in Lao PDR on 15-19 September 2013 and the progress of the implementation of the Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Work Programme (2013-2015). We looked forward to the effective implementation of the eight priority areas under the SOMTC Work Programme, namely trafficking in persons, counter terrorism, illicit drugs trafficking, money laundering, arms smuggling, sea piracy, international economic crime, and cybercrime.
Trafficking in Persons (TIP)
33. Recalling the ASEAN Leaders’ Joint Statement in Enhancing Cooperation against Trafficking in Persons in Southeast Asia adopted at the 18th Summit held on 8 May 2011 in Jakarta, we note the progress on drafting an ASEAN Convention on Trafficking in Persons (ACTIP) and a Regional Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons (RPA).
We looked forward to the conclusion of the ACTIP and RPA in 2014 and its submission to the 26 th ASEAN Summit in 2015. We emphasised the importance of the continued engagement between the AMMTC and our Dialogue Partners in combating trafficking in persons.
Counter Terrorism
34. We welcomed the ratification of the ASEAN Convention on Counter-Terrorism (ACCT) by all ASEAN Member States in January 2013 and the completion of the review process of the ASEAN Comprehensive Plan of Action on Counter Terrorism (ACPoA on CT) in 27 March 2013. We encouraged relevant sectoral bodies to enhance their cooperation and coordination in addressing the root causes of terrorism, countering, preventing, and suppressing terrorism, disrupting terrorists’ networks, protecting the peoples of ASEAN and reducing the vulnerability of critical infrastructures against terrorist attacks. We must also promote harmony, tolerance and understanding among the societies.
Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking
35. Mindful of the target year for a Drug Free ASEAN in 2015, we encouraged all relevant ASEAN bodies to intensify their efforts to fulfill the vision outlined in the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on a Drug-Free ASEAN 2015. We welcomed the convening of the ASEAN Special Ministerial Meeting on Drug Matters in 2012 and 2013. We looked forward to the outcomes of the Third ASEAN Special Ministerial Meeting on Drug Matters to be hosted by Indonesia in December 2014.
Disaster Risk Reduction, Management, Relief and Rehabilitation
36. Emphasising ASEAN’s vision for disaster-resilient nations and a safer ASEAN Community, we were pleased to note the progress of ASEAN’s work on disaster management and the commencement of the implementation of the Work Programme Phase 2 (2013-2015) of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER). We encouraged all relevant sectoral bodies to implement the ASEAN Declaration on Enhancing Cooperation in Disaster Management, which was adopted at the 23rd ASEAN Summit held in Bandar Seri Begawan in October 2013.
37. We welcomed the establishment and commencement of work of the Joint Task Force comprising officials from the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) and senior officials from other relevant ASEAN bodies to promote synergies on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). We were satisfied with its work to develop processes for the rapid deployment of resources from relevant ASEAN sectors as well as to develop strategies to further utilise the resources and processes developed by other ASEAN-led mechanisms, in particular the EAS, ADMM Plus and ARF, while maintaining ASEAN Centrality.
38. Noting that our region is prone to natural disasters and recognising the importance of disaster mitigation and preparedness, we welcomed the co-hosting of ARF Disaster Relief Exercises (DiREx) by Malaysia and China in February 2015 in Malaysia. ARF DiREx aims to improve civilian-military coordination efforts, create synergy, and synchronise efforts towards supporting the effective implementation of AADMER as the common platform for disaster management of the region. We also welcomed the adoption of the Terms of Reference of the Secretary-General of ASEAN as ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Coordinator (TOR-SG-AHAC) at the 14th ACC on 10 May 2014. The TOR-SG-AHAC provides a clearer definition of the role of the Secretary-General of as ASEAN humanitarian assistance coordinator as mandated at the 14th ASEAN Summit in March 2009.
39. In the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan, we realised that developing community resilience against natural disasters through capacity-building activities and projects are crucial to the long-term recovery and rehabilitation of affected areas. We noted the need to focus also on disaster prevention and early warning systems and disaster preparedness and mitigation programs. In this regard, we welcomed the pre-conference meeting on continuing support for the recovery of the communities affected by the Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) on 15 July 2014 at the ASEAN Secretariat and looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN High-Level Conference on Assistance for the Recovery of Yolanda - Affected Areas (ARYA) and the ASEAN Community Rebuilding Technical Workshop on 14 August 2014 in Manila.
40. We welcomed the convening of the 6th Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (6 th AMCDRR) held in Bangkok on 22-26 June 2014 under the theme “Promoting Investments for Resilient Nations and Communities”, which provided regional inputs to the post-2015 framework for disaster risk reduction.
ASEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY
Implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint
41. We welcomed that the AEC has completed the third phase of implementation of the AEC Blueprint (2012-2013) and has now moved on to the fourth and final phase of implementation (2014-2015).
Transportation
42. We appreciated further efforts and progress made in the implementation of the ASEAN Strategic Transport Plan 2011-2015, especially on key transport initiatives which include the ratification of the ASEAN Single Aviation Market (ASAM), Open Skies agreements, ASEAN Single Shipping Market (ASSM), Singapore-Kunming Rail Link (SKRL), ASEAN Highway Network (AHN) and facilitation of cross-border movement of goods and passengers by road vehicles. We welcomed the conclusion of the Study on Formulating an ASSM Implementing Strategy and the 8th Package of Commitments on Air Transport Ancillary Services under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services.
Energy
43. We noted the completion of the Mid-Term Review of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2010-2015 which shows that ASEAN is on track to meet most of the key targets set out in the said plan of action. We welcomed the good progress of ASEAN power grid interconnection projects including the two priority projects between Peninsula Malaysia and Sumatra in Indonesia, and between Sarawak in Malaysia and West Kalimantan in Indonesia as well as the signing of the Instrument to extend the Memorandum of Understanding on the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline until 20 May 2024. We looked forward to the 32 nd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting and related Meetings which will be held on 22-24 September 2014 in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
44. We further noted the good progress made towards completing the ASEAN Information and Communication Technology Master Plan 2015 (AIM 2015), especially in the area of digital inclusion which will allow ASEAN citizens to take part in social-economic development processes. We recognise the need to further intensify cooperation to make ICT a key enabler for the region’s social and economic integration.
Finance
45. We welcomed the continued strong efforts to deepen and integrate our capital markets, and the on-going efforts to further liberalise our financial services sub-sectors. We were encouraged by the bigger role undertaken by ASEAN in macro-economic policy communication and took note that the region’s stability has also been encouraged by the strengthening of the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM) as the regional financial safety net.
Food, Agriculture, and Forestry
46. We also appreciated the significant progress to enhance ASEAN’s long-term competitiveness and sustainable development of ASEAN’s food, agriculture and forestry products, through developing and implementing ASEAN best practices, including the initiative to establish an ASEAN certification and accreditation mechanism to support their implementation which will bring benefits to farmers in this region.
Tourism
47. We noted that for 2013, ASEAN received 99.2 million visitors or an increase of 11.73% from 2012. The implementation of the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2011-2015 has been progressing well with 75% of the measures for 2013 having been duly completed. These include the completion of 144 toolboxes for hotel divisions; the ASEAN Tourism Qualification Equivalent Matrix, which will serve as key references for tourism industry and training institutions in delivering the programme under the ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on Tourism Professionals; and the development of comprehensive tourism standards for green hotel, homestay, spa services, public toilet, clean tourist city and community based tourism, and their certification processes that will help to enhance the quality of human resources, services and facilities in the region.
48. We welcomed the progress in engaging our +1 FTA partners. ASEAN has just commenced FTA negotiations with Hong Kong in July 2014. Separately, we welcomed other efforts to enhance economic cooperation with our Dialogue Partners.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
49. We acknowledged that the AEC must continue to be able to benefit the community at large, particularly the SMEs, entrepreneurs and the youth. To this end, we reiterated the need to provide special attention towards supporting the work in these areas. We were encouraged to note that the SME Working Group is developing an ASEAN Benchmark for SME Credit Rating Methodology and working on the establishment of SME Service Centres with Sub-regional and Regional Linkages in ASEAN Member States by the end of this year.
Information Outreach
50. As 2015 approaches, we are aware that information outreach will be key towards the success and inclusiveness of the AEC. In this regard, we would need to undertake more effective communication with our ASEAN citizens and to this end, we welcomed the publication of the AEC Booklet “Thinking Globally, Prospering Regionally – The ASEAN Economic Community 2015” prepared by the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration (HLTF-EI).
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
51. We noted the progress of negotiations since May 2013 on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) which plays an important role in strengthening the regional economic architecture and fostering equitable economic development. We welcomed the successful conclusion of the fifth round of negotiation of RCEP in June 2014 in Singapore and looked forward to the 2nd RCEP Ministerial Meeting to be held on 27 August 2014 in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, during the 46th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting. We expressed our aspiration on the timely conclusion of RCEP negotiations in accordance with the RCEP Leaders’ Joint Declaration on the Launch of Negotiations for the RCEP as well as its Guiding Principles and Objectives.
ASEAN SOCIO-CULTURAL COMMUNITY
Implementation of the ASCC Blueprint
52. We welcomed the significant progress in the implementation of the ASCC Blueprint. We looked forward to the acceleration of the implementation of the remaining action lines under the ASCC Blueprint in order to realise a people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN Community.
53. We reiterated our commitment to enhance the well-being and livelihood of the peoples of ASEAN by providing them with equitable access to opportunities for human development, social welfare and justice as enshrined in the ASEAN Charter.
Environment
54. We stressed that it is important to ensure a balanced agenda for development and environment protection so that we can achieve our development goals without sacrificing the opportunities of our generations to come. In this regard, we commended the efforts and valuable contributions by the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Environment (AMME) and its sectoral bodies by playing a pivotal role in promoting environmental protection and sustainable development through the implementation of the ASCC Blueprint. We looked forward to the 15th Informal Ministerial Meeting on Environment, which will be held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 30 October 2014. We also encouraged continued and enhanced efforts with regard to exploring potential new areas of cooperation with Dialogue Partners and regional/international organisations to implement existing ASEAN initiatives on environmental sustainability.
55. We expressed our satisfaction on the progress of cooperation in the area of environmental conservation. We welcomed the progress of activities and programmes in ensuring environmental sustainability which includes, among others, (i) the ASEAN Programme on Sustainable Management of Peatlands Ecosystem (2014-2020), (ii) the ASEAN Environmental Education Action Plan (AEEAP) 2014-2018, (iii) the ASEAN Action Plan on Joint Response to Climate Change, and (iv) the Agreement on the Establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. We also noted the valuable contribution by ASEAN’s external partners in the implementation of activities and programmes towards achieving environmental sustainability.
Haze
56. We noted that transboundary haze pollution remains a concern in the region. In this regard, we agreed to further intensify regional and international cooperation including those under the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP), particularly to promote efforts among ASEAN Member States to ensure the full and effective implementation of the zero burning techniques in land clearing. We acknowledged that the ASEAN Sub-regional Haze Monitoring System (HMS) is a useful tool to assist in monitoring and internal enforcement actions against irresponsible parties contributing to fires. We urged the MSC countries to take the necessary action in order to operationalise the HMS. We looked forward to Indonesia’s early ratification of the AATHP.
ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB)
57. We noted the conduct by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) of a Workshop on the Review of the Agreement on the Establishment of the ACB with stakeholders on 21-22 July 2014. We recognised the role of the ACB as a regional centre of excellence dedicated to the promotion of regional collaboration on biodiversity conservation.
Climate Change
58. We emphasised the need for the full implementation of the ASEAN Action Plan on Joint Response to Climate Change to realise the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on Joint Response to Climate Change by all ASEAN Member States, and encouraged further cooperation in response to climate change through information sharing, consultation, cooperation programmes and collaboration in international negotiations and forums, where appropriate. We appreciated the Working Group on Climate Change for its efforts in the implementation process of the Action Plan and encouraged the Working Group to finalise the text of an ASEAN Joint Statement on Climate Change for consideration for the Leaders’ adoption at the 25th Summit.
59. We emphasised the importance of strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community to the impacts of climate change by effectively implementing the ASEAN Climate Change Initiative (ACCI). We looked forward to the UN Climate Summit to be held in New York in September 2014, and reaffirmed the importance of adopting at COP-21 a new global agreement applicable to all Parties under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Migrant Workers
60. Recognising the contribution of migrant workers to both society and economy of ASEAN, we reiterated the importance of safeguarding the human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals, including the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers, in accordance with national laws, regulations, and policies . In this regard, we urged the ASEAN Committee on the Implementation of the ASEAN Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers (ACMW) to facilitate the timely finalisation of the zero draft of an ASEAN instrument on the protection and promotion of migrant workers’ rights.
Rural Development and Poverty Eradication
61. We reiterated the importance of implementing on-going projects under the endorsed Framework Action Plan on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication (2011-2015), which is aimed towards ensuring sustainable rural development, robust rural economic growth and poverty alleviation. In this regard, we agreed to promote the development path through green economy and green growth.
62. We looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN Forum to Promote Best Practices in Sustainable Rural Infrastructure Development on 25-28 August 2014 in Kuala Lumpur. The forum will serve as an avenue to share best practices on sustainable rural infrastructure development and reflect on country-level initiatives, progress and challenges in efforts to develop the rural areas through infrastructure. We also noted the proposals for the two projects to be spearheaded by the Philippines, namely “Food Security and Price Spikes: Stocktaking of Responsive Social Protection Policies for the Vulnerable Poor” and the “ASEAN Regional Capacity Development to Enhance Accountability of Local Government in Delivering Social Protection Program through Community Driven Development.”
Health
63. We underlined the need for continued strengthening of various measures to promote cooperation in regional health development. In this respect, we encouraged health officials to intensify efforts for the effective implementation of health-related work plans set out under the ASEAN Strategic Framework on Health Development (2010-2015).
64. Recognising the heavy burden of Non-Communicable Diseases to the socio-economic development of our region, we encouraged relevant sectors to implement the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases in ASEAN which was adopted at the 23 rd ASEAN Summit on 9 October 2013.
65. We reaffirmed our commitment towards the establishment of (i) the ASEAN Risk Communication Resource Centre (RCRC) to provide training and research in risk communication, to support efforts in managing health emergencies; and (ii) the ASEAN Risk Assessment Center (ARAC) which will serve as a coordinating centre on risk assessment in ASEAN to provide risk assessment output and scientific opinion to assist in the management of food safety issues of common interest to ASEAN.
Culture
66. We emphasised the importance of promoting culture as a pillar of sustainable development and supported the integration of culture in development policies and strategies at the local, national, regional and international levels. To this end, we noted the on-going work by the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Culture and Arts to formulate the Hue Declaration on Culture for ASEAN Community’s Sustainable Development.
67. We highlighted the importance of culture as a vital element in building an ASEAN identity and unifying force for ASEAN Community building. We therefore underscored the importance of formulating the ASEAN Awareness Campaign in cultivating our common identity through the adoption of national and regional communication plans.
68. We underlined the importance to promote ASEAN identity through fostering of greater awareness of the diverse culture and heritage of the region. In this regard, we encouraged respective officials to further promote cultural exchanges and cooperation as well as strengthen cooperation in information sector.
Youth
69. Recognising that our youths are the future of ASEAN, we stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation to promote education for youth. We welcomed the recently completed Inaugural ASEAN State of Education Report which provides an overview of the education landscape in ASEAN and the continued implementation of the two regional youth volunteer programmes; namely: the ASEAN Youth Volunteers Programme (AYVP) and the ASEAN Young Professionals Volunteers Corps (AYPVC). We also recognised the potential of youth in contributing towards the ASEAN community building process, and the importance of encouraging greater awareness of ASEAN through different platforms to promote dialogue and people-to-people exchanges. In this respect, we welcomed Malaysia ’s intention to organise the ASEAN Youth Leaders’ Summit in 2015.
Science and Technology
70. For ASEAN to remain competitive in this dynamic global environment, ASEAN needs to cultivate the innovative culture among our peoples. In this regard, we looked forward to the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI 2015-2020) by 2014.
Sports
71. Sports provides the opportunity for greater people-to-people interaction. In this regard, we encouraged respective officials to implement the Vientiane Declaration on Sports Cooperation in ASEAN and looked forward to a work plan to implement the declaration.
Social Welfare and Development
72. We welcomed the Strategic Framework on Social Welfare and Development (2011-2015), which aims to address the pressing issues relating to elderly people, persons with disabilities, children and family development and noted the implementation of the projects and activities under the Framework.
Cross-cutting issues
73. We also called for the leadership that will be needed for defining distantly regional positions and strengthen ASEAN centrality in the areas under its purview-in an increasingly complex environment with cross-cutting issues by leveraging the diverse institutions and highly networked sectoral bodies.
ASEAN CONNECTIVITY
74. To ensure the success of ASEAN integration and a competitive and resilient ASEAN Community, we underscored the importance of the full implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) which would promote economic growth, narrow development gaps, and promote deeper social and cultural understanding and greater people mobility. We appreciated the continued efforts of the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC) in monitoring and facilitating the implementation of the MPAC.
75. We encouraged the ACCC to work with National Coordinators and relevant Sectoral Bodies in exerting greater efforts to mobilise appropriate resources including financial and technical ones, utilise the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund (AIF) as well as develop Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) as a model for financing infrastructure projects. The development of a set of Principles for effective PPP frameworks would enable the efficient harnessing of private sector expertise and supporting governments in obtaining attractive infrastructure investment in the region.
76. We looked forward to the 5th ASEAN Connectivity Symposium with the theme "Catalysing Public-Private Partnerships to Finance ASEAN Connectivity" which would be held in Myanmar in September this year and the ACCC PPP Networking Forum: Towards an ASEAN PPP Agenda in Manila, the Philippines, on 16-17 December 2014. We noted the on-going work of the ASEAN-PPP Programme, the PPP Guidelines and the Scoping Study on Risk Mitigation Instruments towards building the capacity of ASEAN Member States in preparing and delivering PPP projects. We called for the continued support of Dialogue Partners, external parties and the private sector to contribute to the implementation of the MPAC.
Timor-Leste’s Official Application for ASEAN Membership
77. We were encouraged by the progress by the ASEAN Coordinating Council Working Group (ACCWG) in the consideration of all relevant aspects related to the application by Timor-Leste, as well as its possible implications on ASEAN, and agreed to explore the possibility of Timor-Leste’s participation in ASEAN activities within the context of its need for capacity building.
EXTERNAL RELATIONS
78. We reaffirmed our efforts to continue enhancing ASEAN’s external relations. In this regard, we reiterated the importance of ASEAN Centrality in the evolving regional architecture and reaffirmed our commitments to work closely with all our partners through various ASEAN-led mechanisms, including ASEAN Plus One, ASEAN Plus Three, ARF, ADMM-Plus and EAS, in ensuring the maintenance of peace, stability, security and prosperity in the region.
79. We noted with satisfaction the important developments in ASEAN’s external relations, in particular the progress made with our Dialogue Partners over the past year. We also welcomed the accreditation of Ambassadors to ASEAN from seventy-eight non-ASEAN Member States and one regional organisation.
80. We acknowledged the rapidly changing dynamics of our region and the world, as well as the increased interest of external parties in ASEAN cooperation and the potential for ASEAN to benefit from new opportunities, including through the use of the Guidelines for ASEAN’s External Relations. We looked forward to the HLTF’s recommendations on ASEAN’s conduct of external relations, including through, among others, the issue of moratorium.
ASEAN-Australia
81. We noted with satisfaction that 2014 marked the 40th Anniversary of the ASEAN-Australia dialogue relations and welcomed a series of commemorative activities. In this respect, we looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN-Australia Commemorative Summit in conjunction with the 25th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in November 2014 in Nay Pyi Taw, and the adoption of a joint statement that will set the future direction of our relations.
82. We reaffirmed the ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Partnership and looked forward to the adoption of a new Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Partnership (2015-2019) to succeed the POA 2008-2013.
83. We noted with appreciation Australia’s continued support to the region in preventing trafficking in persons through the five-year Australia-Asia Program to Combat Trafficking in Persons (AAPTIP), which was launched in March 2014, as Australia’s successor programme to the Australia-Asia Program to Combat Trafficking in Persons (AAPTIP).
84. We appreciated Australia’s continued support for ASEAN integration and ASEAN Community building efforts, especially through the ASEAN-Australia Development Cooperation Programme (AADCP) Phase II and the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Economic Support Programme (AECSP).
85. We acknowledged Australia’s on-going support for the implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Relief (AADMER) and collaboration with the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) to strengthen cooperation in disaster management.
86. We supported efforts to promote mutual understanding and strengthen the institutional and people-to-people linkages between Australia and countries in the region, especially in education. We welcomed the pilot programme of the New Colombo Plan and the expansion of this programme to all ASEAN Member States from 2015. We noted Australia’s commitment of A$100 million over five years to implement the New Colombo Plan.
ASEAN-Canada
87. We noted the progress in the implementation of the ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action to implement the Joint Declaration on ASEAN-Canada Enhanced Partnership (2010-2015). We welcomed the adoption of the Terms of Reference of the ASEAN-Canada Enhanced Partnership Program (ACEPP) which provides CAD$10 million funding support to ASEAN’s projects and community-building efforts.
88. We noted that the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Road-show to Canada in June 2014 was a good opportunity for ASEAN and Canada to explore ways to enhance economic, trade and investment cooperation.
89. We noted with appreciation Canada’s support to enhance ASEAN Secretariat’s information management and documentation system through ASEAN Online.
ASEAN-China
90. We noted with satisfaction the collective commitment of ASEAN and China to further strengthen ASEAN-China relationship by enhancing mutual trust and confidence and promoting cooperation in the political-security, economic, and social-cultural areas as outlined in the Joint Statement of the 16 th ASEAN-China Summit in Commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership, as well as the Joint Statement of the 15th ASEAN-China Summit on the 10th Anniversary of the Declaration on the Code of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).
91. We welcomed China’s commitment to support ASEAN Community building efforts and enhance ASEAN-China relations, through among others, China ’s proposals and initiatives to support ASEAN Connectivity initiatives, advance maritime cooperation, and intensify people-to-people exchanges. In this regard, we looked forward to working closely with China to further strengthen the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership.
92. We reiterated the importance of effective utilisation of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) in order for ASEAN and China to be able to achieve the targets of two-way trade volume of US$ 500 billion by 2015 and US$ 1 trillion by 2020, as well as two-way investment of US$ 150 billion in the next 6 years. We welcomed the efforts to strengthen economic cooperation which will contribute to improving overall market access and lead to increasing total trade volume and investment flows between ASEAN and China, including the initiative for an upgraded ACFTA.
93. We welcomed the various meaningful activities held in ASEAN Member States and China in connection with the 2014 ASEAN-China Cultural Exchange Year, including the Opening Ceremony on 7 April 2014 in Beijing. We also looked forward to future activities to promote people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in relevant fields as well as supporting the ASEAN-China Plan of Action on Culture Cooperation.
94. We noted with satisfaction the progress in the implementation of the 2011-2015 Plan of Action (POA) to implement the Joint Declaration on the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity.
95. We welcomed the First Country Coordinators Meeting of the Network of ASEAN-China Think-Tanks (NACT CCM) which was held on 3 July 2014 in Beijing, China, and looked forward to an increase in academic exchanges between ASEAN and China.
ASEAN-EU
96. We noted with satisfaction the progress in the implementation of the Bandar Seri Begawan Plan of Action to Strengthen the ASEAN-EU Enhanced Partnership (2013-2017). We welcomed the EU’s continued support for ASEAN to successfully build the ASEAN Community by 2015 through various development cooperation programmes such as the ASEAN Regional Integration Support by the EU (ARISE), the ASEAN Air Transport Integration Project (AATIP) and the Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (READI).
97. We welcomed the successful convening of the 20th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting (AEMM) on 23 July 2014 in Brussels and noted the positive outcomes of the meeting, including the decision to enhance connectivity between the two regions and support for the implementation of the MPAC; enhancing maritime security and safety cooperation such as information sharing and capacity building; and working towards upgrading the partnership to a strategic one.
98. We appreciated the EU’s support for ASEAN’s institution building and 2015 Community building goals through its commitment of €170 million for the period of 2014 - 2020, including its significant contribution to enhancing ASEAN Connectivity and narrowing the development gap. We also encouraged the EU to constructively engage with and support ASEAN sub-regional cooperative mechanisms and initiatives.
99. We welcomed cooperation between ASEAN and the EU on maritime issues and noted the outcomes arising from in-depth discussions of the ASEAN-EU High Level Dialogue on Maritime Cooperation in Jakarta in November 2013.
100. We welcomed the convening of the 1st ASEAN-EU Policy Dialogue on Connectivity on 24-28 February 2014 in Brussels and called for the EU’s continued support and cooperation in the implementation of the MPAC to forge greater ASEAN-EU connectivity. We also noted with satisfaction that the EU, including the European Investment Bank, agreed to explore financial support to the infrastructure connectivity inspired by the MPAC.
101. We welcomed the adoption of the Joint Declaration on EU-ASEAN Aviation Cooperation at the 1st EU-ASEAN Aviation Summit held on 11-12 February 2014 in Singapore, and noted the EU’s intent to start negotiations on a comprehensive EU-ASEAN air transport agreement. In this regard, we looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN-EU Aviation Working Group which will discuss and monitor progress in the entire range of areas of cooperation in aviation.
102. We reaffirmed our commitment to strengthen cooperation between ASEAN and the EU, including the possibility of resuming negotiations of an ASEAN-EU Free Trade Agreement, upon realisation of the ASEAN Economic Community by the end of 2015. We noted the progress of the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and discussion between individual ASEAN Member States and the EU, and we looked forward to the convening of the 13th Consultations between ASEAN Economic Ministers and the EU Trade Commissioner which is expected to be held in August 2014 in Myanmar.
103. We welcomed the ASEAN-EU Emergency Management Programme (AEEMP), which would provide support to ASEAN Member States, the AHA Centre, and the ASEAN Secretariat.
ASEAN-India
104. We noted the progress of work under the ASEAN-India Plan of Action to implement the ASEAN-India Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared Prosperity (2010-2015). We looked forward to the effective implementation of the Vision Statement of the 2012 ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit.
105. We encouraged ASEAN-India cooperation to further address transnational and non-traditional security challenges, particularly in the field of combating terrorism, illicit drug trafficking, trafficking in persons, maritime security and cyber-crime.
106. We agreed to further promote maritime cooperation to address common challenges on maritime issues, including sea piracy, search and rescue at sea, maritime environment, maritime connectivity, freedom of navigation, fisheries and other areas of cooperation.
107. We noted that the total two-way trade between ASEAN and India grew by 5.3% in the past years and called for further encouragement and promotion of business-to-business contact to achieve greater trade and investment between ASEAN and India. In this regard, we looked forward to the signing of the ASEAN-India Services and Investment Agreements at the forthcoming 12th AEM-India Consultations in August 2014.
108. We expressed our appreciation on the support of India in the implementation of the MPAC as it will enhance regional integration and better linkages between ASEAN and India. We encouraged further India’s support, especially in the field of maritime connectivity and information and communication technology (ICT). We looked forward to the expeditious conclusion of the existing ASEAN-India transport initiatives including the ASEAN-India Air Transport Agreement and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Project and its extension to Lao PDR and Cambodia, and the development of the new highway also linking Viet Nam, which will enhance connectivity between and beyond both sides, and strengthen trade, investment, businesses and tourism flows.
109. We recognised that ASEAN and India are moving forward in enhancing cooperation in the field of science and technology by utilising the ASEAN-India Science and Technology Development Fund.
110. We also noted with satisfaction the successful convening of the Delhi Dialogue VI in March 2014 and the 2nd Round Table on ASEAN- India Network of Think Tank (AINTT) in September 2013 in Vientiane.
111. We reiterated the need to strengthen ASEAN-India cooperation in agriculture and energy in order to ensure long-term food security and energy security, especially with the use of appropriate technologies, for the benefit of the peoples in our region.
ASEAN-Japan
112. We noted with satisfaction the progress made in ASEAN-Japan relations in the past year, including the outcomes of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit to commemorate the 40 th Anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. In this connection, we agreed to further strengthen our cooperation across all areas of political-security, economic and social-cultural development.
113. We appreciated Japan for establishing the Japan – ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) 2.0, which amounts to USD 100 million, as the continuation of JAIF to support the implementation of projects under the ASEAN-Japan Plan of Action 2011-2015 and the Implementation Plan of the Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. We also welcomed effort to realise the Heart-to-Heart Partner pillar of the ASEAN-Japan Vision Statement through the WA Project.
114. We valued Japan ’s important role and significant contribution to the implementation of the MPAC. We welcomed Japan ’s initiative for the conclusion of a regional air services agreement with ASEAN at the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in December 2013. We looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN-Japan Working Group on Regional Air Services Arrangements, and recognised that it is important for ASEAN to pursue a mutually beneficial, liberal and substantial agreement with Japan to strengthen air connectivity in support of tourism, trade and investment flows.
115. We noted the contribution of Japan to the efforts in narrowing development gap toward ASEAN integration through the promotion of sharing and exchange of experience and good practices between ASEAN Member States, particularly the CLMV countries.
ASEAN-Republic of Korea (ROK)
116. We noted with satisfaction that this year marks the 25 th Anniversary of ASEAN-ROK dialogue relations and welcomed the overall progress of cooperation over the years. In this respect, we welcomed a series of commemorative activities throughout the year and looked forward to the successful convening of the ASEAN-ROK Commemorative Summit in Busan, ROK, on 11-12 December 2014 to give momentum to substantively enhance partnership cooperation between ASEAN and the ROK in the years to come.
117. We welcomed the progress of the implementation of the Plan of Action to Implement ASEAN-ROK Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity 2011-2015.
118. We noted the discussion on political and security cooperation between ASEAN and the ROK, through a dedicated agenda on political security-related matters during the 18 th ASEAN-ROK Dialogue in Busan, ROK.
119. We emphasised the importance of fully utilising the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Area (AKFTA) and ASEAN-Korea Business Council to reach the target of USD150 billion trade volume by 2015.
120. We welcomed the Extension of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Forest Cooperation (AFoCo) Agreement. We looked forward to the effective implementation of the Agreement to support sustainable forest management and other forest-related activities, including prevention of deforestation and forest degradation as well as address the impact of climate change.
121. We looked forward to the conclusion of the ASEAN-ROK Air Services Agreement, and recognised that it is important for ASEAN to pursue a mutually beneficial, liberal and substantial agreement with the ROK to strengthen air connectivity in support of tourism, trade and investment flows.
ASEAN-New Zealand
122. We noted the progress of implementation of the ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action (2010-2015) and the successful implementation of the four flagship initiatives, namely the ASEAN-New Zealand Scholarships Programme, Young Business Leaders Exchange Programme, Initiatives on Disaster Risk Management Programme and the Agricultural Diplomacy Programme.
123. We looked forward to the convening of an ASEAN-New Zealand Commemorative Summit in 2015 in Malaysia and other commemorative activities to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the ASEAN-New Zealand dialogue relations. We noted that the 21st ASEAN-New Zealand Dialogue in February 2014 in Vientiane, Lao PDR, had discussed the deliverables of the Commemorative Summit, including the ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action (2015-2020), with a view to renewing the commitments to further broaden and deepen the dialogue relations.
124. We noted with satisfaction New Zealand's continued support to ASEAN in the education sector, particularly the English Language Training for Officials (ELTO) programme and the ASEAN – New Zealand Scholarship Flagship Programme to build capacity for to the ASEAN Member States, especially the CLMV.
125. We noted with appreciation New Zealand’s continued support to ASEAN in strengthening the ASEAN Secretariat through the AANZFTA Support Unit of the ASEAN Secretariat.
ASEAN-Russia
126. We noted the progress of the implementation of the Roadmap of the Comprehensive Programme of Action between ASEAN and the Russian Federation for 2005-2015. We looked forward to implementing more concrete activities, focusing on industry, finance, SMEs, information, sports, and disaster management, ICT, environment management cooperation, and people to people interactions between ASEAN and Russia.
127. We appreciated Russia’s commitment in contributing USD1.5 million annually to the ASEAN-Russian Federation Dialogue Partnership Financial Fund (ARDPFF) since 2011. We encouraged the utilisation of the ARDPFF to facilitate and expedite the remaining work of the current Comprehensive Programme of Action.
128. We continued to work with Russia to further enhance our cooperation to implement the ASEAN-Russia Joint Declaration for Cooperation to Combat International Terrorism through dialogue and capacity building.
129. We welcomed Russia’s interest to support ASEAN Connectivity and noted their intention to work with the ACCC.
ASEAN-US
130. We noted with satisfaction the successful convening of the First ASEAN-US Summit held in October 2013 in Bandar Seri Begawan, which symbolised efforts of both sides to elevate the ASEAN-US partnership to a strategic level, and acknowledged the progress of implementation of the Plan of Action to Implement the ASEAN-US Enhanced Partnership for Enduring Peace and Prosperity (2011 – 2015).
131. We welcomed the US’ continued support for the ASEAN Community building efforts through various development cooperation programmes, including the ASEAN Connectivity through Trade and Investment project (ACTI) and the ASEAN-US Partnership for Good Governance, Equitable and Sustainable Development and Security (ASEAN-US PROGRESS) launched in December 2013.
132. We encouraged both sides to fully utilise the ASEAN-US Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) and the Expanded Economic Engagement (E3) initiative to further create economic opportunities and shared prosperity. We welcomed the US-ASEAN Business Summit scheduled to take place in August 2014.
133. We welcomed the progress of ASEAN-US cooperation in various areas, including maritime security, transnational crime, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, energy, education, rule of law, and development in the Lower Mekong sub-region.
ASEAN Plus Three
134. We expressed our satisfaction with the comprehensive ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Framework and took note of the progress of implementation of the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan (2013-2017) and on-going work to undertake a review and assessment of the recommended actions in the Report of the East Asia Vision Group II.
135. Recognising the importance of enhancing exchanges among businesses, peoples and information among the ASEAN Plus Three participating countries, we looked forward to the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation on ASEAN Plus Three Tourism Cooperation at the forthcoming 14 th Meeting of the ASEAN Plus Three Tourism Ministers, which would be held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, in January 2015.
136. We noted the intention of the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat to institutionalise and consolidate its cooperation with the ASEAN Secretariat.
137. Encouraged by the substantial progress made on the implementation of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) Agreement, we further recommended deeper cooperation among the ASEAN Plus Three countries to strengthen food security cooperation in the region. We also underlined our support for the ASEAN Food Security Information System (AFSIS) to be further strengthened and developed into the ASEAN Plus Three food security information system.
138. We welcomed the steady and continued focus on finance and monetary cooperation, in particular the implementation of the CMIM and the Asian Bond Market Initiative (ABMI). We noted that the 17th Meeting of the ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (AFMGM+3) on 3 May 2014 in Astana, Kazakhstan, welcomed the completion of the revised Operational Guidelines of the amended CMIM agreement and agreed to endorse the “Guidelines for the Further Cooperation with the International Monetary Fund” to help enhance CMIM’s effectiveness.
139. We looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN Plus Three forum on good governance on 25 September 2014 in Myanmar. We believed the forum would contribute to improving the effectiveness and efficiency of public administration, enhancing institutional capacity within the ASEAN Community and increasing the independence and transparency of judicial and legislative systems in the region.
140. We took note of the importance of the Trilateral cooperation as complementary part of the ASEAN Plus Three partnership. In this regard, we encouraged the holding of dialogue or other consultation mechanisms among China, Japan and the Republic of Korea to ensure smooth and swift transition of the ASEAN Plus Three co-coordinatorship.
East Asia Summit
141. We welcomed the significant progress made by the East Asia Summit process. We reaffirmed our commitment to further promote the EAS as a Leaders-led forum for dialogue and cooperation on broad strategic, political, and economic issues of common interest based on the principles, objectives and modalities of the EAS as reflected in the 2005 Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the East Asia Summit, the 2010 Ha Noi Declaration on the Commemoration of the 5th Anniversary of the East Asia Summit, and the 2011 Declaration of the East Asia Summit on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations (Bali Principles), with ASEAN as the driving force.
142. We looked forward to the adoption of the Plan of Action to Implement the 2012 Phnom Penh Declaration on EAS Development Initiative at the 4th EAS Foreign Ministers Meeting to be held on 10 August 2014 in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar.
143. We expressed our appreciation to the non-ASEAN EAS Participating Countries for their unwavering support to the ASEAN Community building process through various initiatives, including the implementation of the MPAC.
144. Further to our Leaders’ commitment in promoting food security and cooperation, we welcomed the convening of three study group meetings of the East Asia Summit Track II Study Group on Enhancing Food Security through Sustainable Fisheries Management and Marine Environment Conservation.
145. We underscored the importance of promoting maritime cooperation so that we could effectively manage maritime-related issues, including maritime security, maritime connectivity, freedom of navigation, search and rescue, marine environmental protection, and fisheries.
Engagement with other external parties
146. We agreed to adopt the Joint Statement on ASEAN-Norway Partnership, which would serve as a roadmap for the ASEAN-Norway Partnership that is action-oriented, mutually beneficial and forward-looking, and comprising political and security cooperation, economic cooperation and socio-cultural cooperation.
ASEAN Regional Forum
147. We reaffirmed the importance of the ARF as a primary forum to foster constructive dialogue, consultation, and cooperation on political and security issues of common interest and concern. We reiterated ASEAN’s centrality and active role as the driving force within the ARF process. We also reiterated our commitment to implement the Ha Noi Plan of Action to Implement the ARF Vision Statement to advance the ARF process toward a Preventive Diplomacy phase, while continuing efforts in Confidence Building Measures, through the implementation of concrete, action-oriented, and practical activities. We underscored the need for the ARF to continue pursuing synergy and effective coordination with the ADMM Plus and other ASEAN-led mechanisms.
REGIONAL SECURITY ARCHITECTURE
148. We reiterated the importance of preserving ASEAN Centrality in the evolving regional architecture. Recalling the Leaders’ decision in the Nay Pyi Taw Declaration on Realisation of the ASEAN Community by 2015, we tasked the officials to explore the possibility for a regional framework, such as a TAC-like treaty, based on the principles contained in the TAC and in line with the spirit of the 2011 Declaration of the East Asia Summit on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations (Bali Principles). In this regard, we welcomed Indonesia ’s effort to propose a Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation in the wider Indo-Pacific region and looked forward to further details from Indonesia . We therefore welcomed Indonesia’s proposal to host the 3rd EAS Workshop on Regional Security Architecture.
REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
South China Sea
149. We remained seriously concerned over recent developments which had increased tensions in the South China Sea and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, maritime security as well as freedom of navigation in and over-flight above the South China Sea.
150. We reaffirmed our commitments to the principles stipulated in the 2012 Statement of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers on ASEAN's Six Point Principles on the South China Sea, the 2012 Joint Statement of the 15th ASEAN-China Summit on the 10th Anniversary of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and the ASEAN Foreign Minister’s Statement on the Current Developments in the South China Sea which was issued on 10 May 2014.
151. We urged all parties concerned to exercise self-restraint and avoid actions which would complicate the situation and undermine peace, stability, and security in the South China Sea and to settle disputes through peaceful means, without resorting to the threat or use of force, including friendly dialogue, consultations and negotiations, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
152. We further stressed the importance of the collective commitments of ASEAN Member States and China to peace, stability, maritime security and mutual trust in the region and the need to create conditions conducive for the peaceful settlement of disputes. We agreed to intensify consultations with China on measures and mechanisms to ensure and further enhance the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety, particularly Articles 4 and 5 as well as substantive negotiations for the early conclusion of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC). We tasked our Senior Officials to follow up on this matter.
153. We took note of the Progress Report on the Implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea to be submitted to the ASEAN-China Post-Ministerial Conference, and tasked officials to work with China to finalise the objective and structure and elaborate the substance of the COC, including concrete elements which would promote trust and confidence, prevent incidents, manage incidents should they occur. We also tasked officials to work on a series of early-harvest measures.
154. We underscored the importance of maintaining the momentum of consultations and expeditiously working towards the early conclusion of the COC following the constructive outcomes of the 7th ASEAN-China Senior Officials Meeting on the Implementation of the DOC (SOM on DOC) held on 21 April 2014 in Pattaya, Thailand and the 10th and 11th ASEAN-China Joint Working Groups on the Implementation of the DOC (JWG on DOC) held on 18 March 2014 in Singapore and 25 June 2014 in Bali, Indonesia, respectively. In this regard, we looked forward to more substantive discussions at the 8th SOM on DOC to be convened back-to-back with the 12th JWG on DOC in October 2014 in Bangkok, Thailand.
155. We noted the paper on the Triple Action Plan introduced by the Philippines and other proposals on Article 5 of the DOC raised by other ASEAN Foreign Ministers on the South China Sea.
Korean Peninsula
156. We welcomed the holding of inter-Korean family reunions in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the outcome of the recent dialogue between Japan and the DPRK to settle pending issues. However, we expressed our concern over the recent developments in the Korean Peninsula, particularly over the testing of ballistic missiles, and reiterated calls for full compliance with relevant UNSC Resolutions and commitments under the 19 September 2005 Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks. We highlighted the importance of enhancing dialogue and creating an atmosphere conducive for the early resumption of the Six-Party Talks which would pave the way for a peaceful denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. To this end, we highly recommended that the ARF, of which all Six-Party Talks participants are members, could contribute to forging a conducive atmosphere for the resumption of the Six-Party Talks.
Ukraine
157. We expressed our support for the peaceful efforts taken by all parties to resolve the situation in Ukraine . We reiterated our concern over the situation in Ukraine and called upon all parties concerned for a broad dialogue aimed at de-escalation and peaceful political solution in compliance with the fundamental principles of international law. We thus underlined the urgent need to de-escalate tensions in Eastern Ukraine, and for all parties to agree on an immediate, genuine and sustainable ceasefire. We urged all concerned parties to come together to negotiate a resolution peacefully in accordance with international law.
The Downing of Malaysia Airlines MH-17
158. We recalled our Joint Statement issued on 19 July 2014 condemning the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on 17 July 2014 which killed 298 people. While recognising that parties controlling the area of the crash site and surrounding areas have facilitated efforts towards gaining access thereto, more needs to be done to ensure that all remains may be gathered and repatriated as soon as possible and in a dignified manner. We demanded that all military activities, including by armed groups, be halted in the immediate and surrounding crash site to allow safe and unimpeded access to the site by the international investigation team probing the cause of the crash. We further demanded that those responsible for the heinous act be held to account and swiftly brought to justice.
Middle East
159. We strongly condemned the loss of thousands of civilian lives and countless wounded, and the targeting of schools designated as safe-houses/shelters managed by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) as well as civilian institutions in Gaza, including the Al-Shifa Hospital, the Al-Aqsa Hospital and the Islamic University of Gaza and places of worship. We also strongly condemned the hiding of weapons in UN premises and the use of human shields, which put innocent civilians in the harm’s way. We called on the international community, in particular the United Nations Security Council to act swiftly and decisively to end the current crisis through dialogue and negotiation. We demand full respect for international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and the provision and distribution of humanitarian assistance.
Syria
160. We expressed deep concern over the continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Syria and condemned the use of chemical weapons in Syria which has caused the loss of lives. We supported the joint efforts of the United Nations and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in dismantling Syria’s chemical weapons stockpiles. We supported the provision of humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of civilians and underlined the need to ensure unrestricted access to humanitarian assistance. We underscored the importance of resolving the crisis in a peaceful manner and supported all efforts, particularly by the United Nations, including the adoption of the UNSC Resolutions 2118, 2139 and 2165.
Iraq
161. We condemned the recent attacks by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Iraq which threatened the peace and stability of the region. We called on the Iraqi government to effectively resolve the situation and called on all parties to ensure access to humanitarian assistance to those affected by insecurity and conflict.
Afghanistan
162. We welcomed the recent elections in Afghanistan, which marked an important step towards a peaceful political transition in the country. We reaffirmed our commitment to Afghanistan’s transition and looked forward to the orderly and peaceful transition to a new administration.
G-20
163. We welcomed the outcomes of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meetings, as well as the recently concluded G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in July 2014. We appreciated the G-20’s commitment to develop ambitious but realistic policies with the aim of increasing global growth by more than two percent over the next five years and developing new measures, in the context of maintaining fiscal sustainability and financial sector stability, to significantly raise global growth. We were pleased with the opportunities to share ASEAN’s views on current issues affecting the global economy in the G-20 through the regular participation of the ASEAN Chair at the G-20 meetings. We continued to support the work of the G20 to achieve strong, sustainable and balanced growth. In this regard, we expressed our support for Australia’s hosting of the 2014 G-20 Summit.
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
164. We noted APEC's on-going contribution to the promotion of open trade and investment, regional economic integration, economic development and prosperity, and welcomed progress towards achieving the Bogor Goals of free and open trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific by 2020. We expressed our support for the APEC Blueprint on Connectivity taking into account of the MPAC. We looked forward to the APEC Blueprint on Connectivity providing concrete outcomes to enhance connectivity in both Southeast Asia and the greater Asia Pacific region. We expressed our support for China ’s hosting of the 2014 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.
World Trade Organisation (WTO)
165. We reaffirmed our support and commitment to a balanced, transparent and rules-based multilateral trading system as embodied by the WTO. We welcomed the outcomes of the 9 th WTO Ministerial Conference held in December 2013 in Bali , Indonesia , including the “Bali Package” of decisions on trade facilitation, agriculture and development, including issues of interest to least-developed countries. Effective implementation of these decisions will provide a huge boost the global economy by streamlining customs procedures globally, strengthening food security, and ensuring greater integration of developing countries, and in particular Least Developed Countries (LDCs), into the global trading system.
48th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting
166. We looked forward to the 48th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting and Post Ministerial Conferences(48th AMM/PMC)/16th ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (16th APT FMM)/ 5th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (5th EAS-FMM) and 22nd ASEAN Regional Forum (22nd ARF) to be held in Malaysia in 2015.
Source: VNA