Foreign Ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) adopted a joint c ommuniqué at the end of their 46th meeting under the theme “Our People, Our Future Together”, in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei on June 30.
Following is the full text of the joint c ommuniqué:
“1. We, the Foreign Ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), met on 29 – 30 June 2013 at the 46th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Bandar Seri Begawan , Brunei Darussalam under the theme “ Our People, Our Future Together ”. His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei Darussalam chaired the Meeting.
BUILDING A LASTING COMMUNITY
2. We are encouraged by the successful outcome of the 22nd ASEAN Summit held in Bandar Seri Begawan on 24-25 April 2013, which reaffirmed our resolve to further intensify our efforts to ensure a politically cohesive, economically integrated and socially responsible ASEAN Community in 2015 by implementing the ASEAN Charter and the Roadmap for an ASEAN Community. We reiterated our commitment to narrowing the development gap by effectively implementing the IAI Work Plan II (2009-2015) and the ASEAN Roadmap towards realising the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
3. In responding to the evolving geopolitical landscape, we emphasised the importance of reviewing ASEAN’s processes and institutions in order to safeguard ASEAN centrality in the evolving regional architecture while enhancing its resilience in overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities.
4. We looked forward to the early commencement of the work of the High-Level Task Force on Strengthening the ASEAN Secretariat and Reviewing the ASEAN Organs to meet the challenges of the future.
5. In order to enhance the region’s capacity in addressing global issues of common concern and raise the profile of ASEAN in the international arena, we reaffirmed our commitment to implement the Bali Concord III Plan of Action (2013-2017) and welcomed the support of our Dialogue Partners, external parties, regional and international organisations.
6. As part of our efforts to implement the Bali Concord III Plan of Action (2013-2017), we agreed to coordinate and provide mutual support for ASEAN Member States’ candidacy in regional and international organisations, where possible. In this regard, we reaffirmed ASEAN’s support for Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Viet Nam, and the Philippines’ candidature to become Non-Permanent Members of the UN Security Council for the year 2015-2016, 2017-2018, 2019-2020, 2020-2021, and 2027-2028 respectively .
7. Recalling the Bali Declaration on ASEAN Community in a Global Community of Nations (Bali Concord III) and the decisions made by our Leaders at the 22nd ASEAN Summit, we remain committed to the development of a post – 2015 ASEAN vision to meet the challenges of the future in order to promote peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia and further deepen ASEAN integration, as well as to continue strategically positioning ASEAN in the evolving regional architecture and the world at large. We agreed to take appropriate actions on Indonesia ’s call for ASEAN to formulate aspirational goals beyond 2015, such as doubling ASEAN’s combined GDP and halving the percentage of people living in poverty in the ASEAN region by 2030.
ASEAN POLITICAL SECURITY COMMUNITY
Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia
8. We reaffirmed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) as the key code of conduct governing inter-state relations in the region and a foundation for the maintenance of regional peace and stability.
9. We welcomed the entry into force of the Third Protocol Amending the TAC and the accession by the UK , the EU, and Brazil in Phnom Penh in 2012 to the Treaty as a positive signal of their commitment to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN and contribute to peace and security in the region. In this regard, we looked forward to the accession of Norway to the TAC on 1 July 2013 in Brunei Darussalam.
10. We recognised the growing interest of other non-ASEAN Member States to accede to the TAC. In this regard, we adopted the revised Guidelines for Accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia . We also commended the work of the Committee of Permanent Representatives in revising the Guidelines.
Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty
11. We underscored the importance of preserving the Southeast Asian region as a Nuclear-Weapon-Free-Zone and free of all other weapons of mass destruction as enshrined in the Treaty of Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ) and the ASEAN Charter. We agreed to continue engaging the Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) in accordance with the objectives and principles of the Treaty, outstanding issues with regards to the signing of the Protocol of the SEANWFZ Treaty without reservations as early as possible . We also underscored the importance of strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament regime to maintain peace, security and prosperity in the region.
12. We noted with appreciation the progress made on implementing the Plan of Action to Strengthen the Implementation of SEANWFZ Treaty 2007-2012 and welcomed the adoption of the revised Plan of Action (2013-2017) with a renewed commitment and a stronger emphasis on concrete actions.
13. We encouraged the full support of the NWS for the ASEAN-sponsored United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution on the SEANWFZ Treaty in the upcoming 68th session of the UNGA. We also looked forward to the submission and eventual adoption by consensus of the 68th UNGA draft resolution on the SEANWFZ Treaty.
Nuclear Safety
14. Recalling the Leaders’ decision to promote information sharing and transparency on nuclear related issues in the region, we encouraged further cooperation in line with the Plan of Action to Strengthen the Implementation of the SEANWFZ Treaty (2013-2017).
ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights
15. We welcomed the progress in the implementation of the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration (AHRD) and noted the annual report of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR). In acknowledging its second term, we underlined the importance of the AICHR, as the overarching human rights institution in ASEAN and tasked the AICHR to enhance its work on the promotion and protection of human rights, in particular, the implementation of the AHRD, in accordance with its Terms of Reference. Bearing in mind that human rights is a cross-cutting issue as well as cross-pillars that is being dealt with in several sectoral bodies, we encouraged AICHR to work in close consultation, coordination and collaboration with various 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 and entities, concerned with the promotion and protection of human rights.
16. We appreciated the Government of Indonesia for organising a dialogue with the AICHR on 25 June 2013 in Jakarta to share information on the promotion and protection of human rights in Indonesia . The dialogue was useful in supporting AICHR in conducting its work. We noted that AICHR and some ASEAN Member States might consider having such a dialogue in the future.
ASEAN Security Outlook
17. We emphasised the importance of the ASEAN Security Outlook (ASO) to promote transparency in security-related policies and complement ASEAN’s confidence building efforts in the region. In this regard, we looked forward to its first annual publication in 2013.
18. Encouraged by the effective and productive joint collaboration by the SOM-ADSOM Joint Working Group (JWG) having finalised the ASO standardized format, we further recommended the close coordination needed between ASEAN SOM and ADSOM on the relevant agendas under the APSC Blueprint.
ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation
19. We welcomed the nominations of the members of the Governing Council and Advisory Board to the AIPR and looked forward to its full and effective operationalization of the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (AIPR) in Jakarta , which would promote research activities on peace, conflict management and conflict resolution in the region.
ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre
20. We reiterated the importance of an ASEAN Regional Mine Action Centre (ARMAC) and commended the work of the Working Group on the Modalities of ARMAC. We encouraged the Senior Officials to expedite the conclusion of the TOR with a view to submit their recommendations to us before the 23rd ASEAN Summit.
Maritime Cooperation
21. Recognising that maritime security, including maritime safety, is crucial to a vibrant, peaceful, stable and resilient Southeast Asia, we encouraged the strengthening of regional cooperation in maritime security through, inter alia, capacity building, exchanging of experiences and sharing of best practices by utilising existing ASEAN frameworks, including the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), the ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF) / Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF).
22. We welcomed the review of the AMF to further strengthen the work of the Forum and complement the existing efforts undertaken by ASEAN.
23. We welcomed the convening of the EAMF in October 2012 in Manila , with ASEAN playing a central role, while working in close partnership with all participants. We looked forward to the 4th AMF / 2nd EAMF to be held in Malaysia in 2013.
Non-Traditional Security Issues
24. We reaffirmed our commitment in addressing non-traditional security issues, particularly in combating transnational crimes and other transboundary challenges. In this regard, we looked forward to the outcome of the 9th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) to be held in Lao PDR on 15-19 September 2013.
25. We reaffirmed our support for the work of relevant ASEAN sectoral bodies in following up with the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on a Drug-Free ASEAN 2015 through the full implementation of the ASEAN Work Plan on Combating Illicit Drug Production, Trafficking and Use (2009-2015). We welcomed the outcomes of the 1st ASEAN Special Ministerial Meeting on Drug Matters held in Thailand on 31 August 2012 and looked forward to the convening of the 2nd ASEAN Special Ministerial Meeting on Drug Matters in
Brunei Darussalam in September 2013. In this regard, we encouraged the ASEAN Senior Officials on Drug Matters (ASOD) to intensify cooperation, exchange of information, data and intelligence, and the sharing of best practices. We also noted the proposal for ASOD to consider creating a database on drug traffickers in the region.
26. Recalling the Leaders’ Joint Statement in Enhancing Cooperation against Trafficking in Persons in Southeast Asia adopted in 2011, we welcomed the progress made by the 9th SOMTC Working Group on Trafficking in Persons (TIP) held in June 2013 in Danang, Viet Nam on the development of an ASEAN Convention on Trafficking in Persons (ACTIP) and a Regional Plan of Action on Combating Trafficking in Persons (RPA).
27. We noted with satisfaction the full ratification of the ASEAN Convention on Counter-Terrorism (ACCT) by all ASEAN Member States in January 2013. We welcomed the successful review of the ASEAN Comprehensive Plan of Action on Counter-Terrorism to address, among others, the root causes of terrorism, and enhancing cooperation on promoting moderation.
Defence Matters
28. We noted the outcomes of the 7th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) held in Brunei Darussalam on 7 May 2013 and its role in promoting regional peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation in defence and security matters, with a view to adding value and complementing the overall ASEAN process. We welcomed the adoption of the concept papers on Establishing ASEAN Defence Interaction Programmes and Establishment of Logistics Support Framework.
29. Acknowledging the significance of defence cooperation through the ADMM-Plus, we emphasised the importance of maintaining and enhancing the central role of ASEAN in the ADMM-Plus process. We noted with appreciation the substantial achievements of the ADMM-Plus process in forging practical cooperation, in particular, through the work of the five ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Groups (EWG) on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, Maritime Security, Military Medicine, Counter-Terrorism and Peacekeeping Operations. In this context, we welcomed the establishment of the ADMM-Plus EWG on Humanitarian Mine Action. We also welcomed the adoption of the concept paper on transition of the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group Co-Chairmanship by the 7th ADMM. We looked forward to the convening of the 2nd ADMM-Plus in August 2013.
Disaster Management and Emergency Response
30. We welcomed the ADMM-Plus Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief and Military Medicine Exercise (ADMM-Plus HADR & MM Ex) recently held in Brunei Darussalam on 17-20 June 2013 , as a landmark cooperation among the defence forces of ADMM-Plus countries, in their efforts to enhance confidence building, regional capacity, interoperability and coordination in addressing non-traditional security challenges, in particular disaster management.
31. We encouraged cross-sectoral coordination and multi-stakeholder participation, including greater civil-military coordination in emergency response operations. We also encouraged the various mechanisms related to disaster management in ASEAN to synchronise their activities and policies using the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) as the common platform for disaster management. We encouraged the holding of regular disaster relief exercises, in order to improve our capacity in disaster preparedness and, as such, welcomed the convening of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Disaster Relief Exercise (DiREx) 2013, co-hosted by Thailand and the Republic of Korea, in Cha-am, Phetchaburi Province, Thailand on 7-11 May 2013, as one of the largest civilian-military exercises of its kind in the region. We also welcomed the Mentawai Megathrust Exercise 2013-2014 in Indonesia , involving the East Asia Summit (EAS) Participating Countries on 20-26 April 2013. We looked forward to the ASEAN Regional Disaster Emergency Response Exercise (ARDEX), in Viet Nam in October 2013.
ASEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY
32. We welcomed the progress in the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint. We expressed our support for the commitment to effectively carry out the remaining prioritised measures to establish AEC by 31 December 2015 and implement cooperation initiatives and measures that will facilitate the flow of trade, investment and people in the region as well as narrowing the development gap among ASEAN Member States, which would enhance ASEAN’s competitiveness, as called for by the Leaders.
33. We supported the on-going efforts towards the establishment of visa-free travel in ASEAN countries for ASEAN nationals, ASEAN immigration lanes. We also recognised the need for the development of an ASEAN Business travel card. In addition, we acknowledged the continued efforts in considering the proposal for an ASEAN Common Visa for non-ASEAN nationals that will facilitate business mobility and tourism.
34. We reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring that our stakeholders are able to benefit from our economic integration work. In this regard, we welcomed the various activities that enable the ASEAN SMEs and young entrepreneurs to actively realise the vast potential in being part of the regional and global supply chain. We also reaffirmed our commitment and recognised the need for stronger partnership between the public and private sector, not only in undertaking the AEC initiatives, but also in actively communicating the information on AEC to the general public.
35. We were encouraged by the development in the sectors under the AEC such as finance, energy, industry, information and communications technology, agriculture, tourism and transport. In this regard, we continue to support efforts to further progress in these areas, in view of their importance towards the establishment of the AEC in 2015, as well as our pursuit of sustainable and equitable economic development for the betterment of our future generation.
36. We welcomed ASEAN’s continued engagement with its Dialogue Partners in its efforts to strengthen economic integration and linkages in the region. We noted with satisfaction the positive outcomes of the 1st Meeting of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Trade Negotiating Committee (RCEP-TNC) in Bandar Seri Begawan in May 2013 and urged the RCEP participating countries to strive for a modern, comprehensive, high-quality and mutually beneficial economic partnership agreement that will become a platform for future trade and investment integration in Asia and the rest of the world. We further welcomed the decision to engage Hong Kong on a bilateral basis for an ASEAN-Hong Kong Free Trade Agreement.
ASEAN SOCIO-CULTURAL COMMUNITY
Review of Blueprint
37. We welcomed the convening of the First Regional Assessment of the Mid-Term Review of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint in Bandar Seri Begawan on 15-16 June 2013. We commended the ASEAN Secretariat for developing a Scorecard to measure the achievement of goals based on national, regional and global contributions and a Monitoring System to assess inputs, activities and outputs on a regional basis. We noted that in addition to Brunei Darussalam offering to fund the regional assessment of the Blueprint in March, resources have recently been mobilised from the ASEAN Development Fund for national assessments, wherever necessary, to be made. We hoped the Mid-Term Review process would be accelerated, in order to produce a comprehensive report on the implementation of the ASCC Blueprint, to serve as the basis for enhancing the fulfilment of the ASCC Blueprint 2015 and to make recommendations of future priorities in Socio-Cultural Community.
Youth
38. We acknowledged the Eighth ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Youth in Bandar Seri Begawan on 22 May 2013 which endorsed a proposal by Brunei Darussalam for an ASEAN Young Professionals Volunteer Corps to complement the ASEAN Youth Volunteer Programme established by Malaysia . We noted that Brunei Darussalam has since announced a partnership with a non-governmental organisation in Singapore to carry out three initial short-term projects in Cambodia , Indonesia and the Philippines this year.
39. We further acknowledged the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration on Youth Volunteerism and Entrepreneurship, which calls on young professionals to offer voluntary community services in areas such as rural development and poverty eradication, disaster relief, health, education and the environment, while supporting vulnerable groups and fostering entrepreneurial skills. We noted that greater awareness of ASEAN among young people should be further encouraged though different platforms to promote dialogue and people-to-people exchanges.
40. We also acknowledged the ASEAN First Young Entrepreneurs Seminar and Expo in Bandar Seri Begawan in May 2013 as a platform for promoting young entrepreneurship and greater economic self-reliance among young people and noted the resolution adopted by the Seminar which highlighted the challenges of youth employment.
41. We welcomed the agreement to set up the ASEAN Youth Programme Fund to help implement regional policies and programmes related to the youth, and encourage further mobilisation of existing resources including the Singapore-ASEAN Youth Fund and other sources from ASEAN Dialogue Partners, to support youth cooperation activities.
ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC)
42. We welcomed the ongoing initiatives of the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC) such as the setting up of an ACWC Network of Social Service Agencies involved in preventing, protecting and helping victims of violence against women and violence against children in ASEAN.
Disaster Management
43. We acknowledged the Second Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the AADMER in Ha Noi on 30 May 2013 and progress in putting into operation the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management with contributions from ASEAN Member States and Dialogue Partners as well as plans to launch the Second Phase of the AADMER Work Programme and the Second AADMER Partnership Conference in Ha Noi in November 2013.
44. We also encouraged closer cooperation in disaster prevention through capacity building efforts focusing on early warning and a timely weather forecast system among ASEAN Member States and between ASEAN and relevant Dialogue Partners.
45. We welcomed the convening of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management (AMMDM) to promote synergy and coordination using AADMER as the common platform for disaster management in the region. We also supported the proposal for an ASEAN Declaration on Enhancing Cooperation in Disaster Management to be issued by the 23rd ASEAN Summit in Bandar Seri Begawan in October 2013.
46. We also noted ACDM’s decision to have a regular forum, such as the open sessions of ACDM meetings to ensure continued discussion on the implementation and linkages between the EAS paper on A Practical Approach to Enhance Regional Cooperation on Disaster Rapid Response (EAS Disaster Management Initiative) and the AADMER Work Programme.
Climate Change and Environment
47. We recognised that trans-boundary haze is a recurring challenge for ASEAN and underscored the importance of the steps taken to overcome it. To address this issue effectively, we reaffirmed our strong commitment to continuously strengthening national and regional capacities through concerted efforts and intensified regional and international cooperation, in particular through the establishment of effective monitoring, rapid response and fire-fighting systems to mitigate haze impacts. We tasked our senior officials to work closely with their relevant counterparts to consolidate ASEAN’s existing initiatives to combat the haze, recommend new and strengthen regional cooperation measures that can be taken to prevent the haze, and report on the progress of these efforts through the Foreign Ministers to the Leaders at the next ASEAN Summit. In this regard, we welcomed the convening of the 15th Meeting of the Subregional Ministerial Steering Committee (MSC) on Trans-boundary Haze Pollution on 17 July 2013 in Malaysia . We also stressed the importance for regional countries to uphold their international obligations and work together to tackle the transboundary haze pollution problem, and in this regard called upon ASEAN Member States that have not yet ratified and operationalized the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution to do so expeditiously.
48. We encouraged full implementation of the ASEAN Climate Change Initiative and the ASEAN Action Plan on Joint Response to Climate Change. We welcomed the continued enhancement of consultation and collaboration in international climate change negotiations as well as climate change forums. We took note of Indonesia ’s initiative on the establishment of a regional Climate Change Database centre.
49. We recognised the importance of water resources preservation and management for sustainable development. We agreed on the need for enhanced cooperation in this area within ASEAN and other sub-regional frameworks, with a view to preventing floods and droughts in the region which could affect agricultural productivity and regional food security. We welcomed the outcome of the Second Asia-Pacific Water Summit on “Water Security and Water-Related Disaster Challenges: Leadership and Commitment” held in Chiang Mai , Thailand on 19-20 May 2013.
Social Protection
50. We welcomed the results of the Inter-Sectoral Workshop on Strengthening Social Protection in ASEAN on 24-25 June 2013 in Jakarta , Indonesia where concerned sectoral bodies reach consensus in promoting social protection in ASEAN. We noted the suggestion for a declaration on social protection towards building an ASEAN as a people-oriented, caring and sharing society.
NARROWING THE DEVELOPMENT GAP AND INITIATIVE FOR ASEAN INTEGRATION
51. We were encouraged by the progress made in implementing the Roadmap for an ASEAN Community, the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan II that will narrow the development gap among ASEAN Member States. In this regard, we encouraged the finalisation of the work programme of the Equitable Economic Development towards its effective implementation in the very near future. We welcomed the decision to undertake a mid-term review of the IAI Work Plan II to identify proper ways of moving it forward into its second phase (2013-2015), taking into account the linkages with other subregional cooperation frameworks. We also welcomed the adoption of the Guidelines for IAI Projects for ASEAN Dialogue Partners and External Parties which would contribute to mobilising resources towards better ASEAN integration.
ASEAN CONNECTIVITY
52. We noted the progress in realising the MPAC and emphasised the importance of increasing its implementation rate, particularly through more effective coordination, communication and resource mobilisation. We recognised the importance of mobilising financial and technical resources, utilisation of the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund (AIF), and the promotion of public-private partnership (PPP) especially through collaboration with Dialogue Partners and external parties. In this connection, we welcomed the theme of the 4th ASEAN Connectivity Symposium entitled “Partnering Private Sector for ASEAN Connectivity” which will be held in Brunei Darussalam in August 2013 and Thailand’s initiative to host the Workshop on “Enhancing Connectivity through Multi-layered Regional Frameworks: The Roles of Dialogue Partners” as well as the EAS Regulatory Roundtable to be co-hosted by Thailand and New Zealand in July 2013. We recognised the importance of ensuring synergy and mutual reinforcement between sub-regional cooperation arrangements and the MPAC. We also welcomed the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee’s (ACCC) engagement with Dialogue Partners, external parties as well as the private sector in the implementation of the MPAC. In this regard, we welcomed the inaugural meeting of the ACCC and India and the inaugural meeting of the ACCC and the Republic of Korea . We also look forward to the convening of the 2/2013 ACCC and Japanese Task Force on ASEAN Connectivity Meeting and the Second Meeting between ACCC and the Chinese Working Committee of China-ASEAN Connectivity Cooperation Committee. We took note that the ACCC is looking forward to meeting with non-ASEAN EAS participating countries to discuss the follow-up to the Declaration of the 6th EAS on ASEAN Connectivity.
Timor-Leste’s Official Application for ASEAN Membership
53. 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
54. We reiterated the importance of ASEAN’s central role in the evolving regional architecture and reaffirmed our commitment to work closely with all our partners through various ASEAN-led mechanisms, including the ASEAN Plus One, ASEAN Plus Three, ARF, ADMM-Plus and East Asia Summit (EAS) in ensuring the maintenance of peace, security, stability, and enhancing prosperity in the region.
55. We expressed satisfaction on the progress achieved in ASEAN’s relations with the Dialogue Partners, namely Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, and the United States of America. We underscored the importance of further deepening and broadening our cooperation in various fields with our Partners as a critical part of ASEAN’s efforts in building a closely integrated community. In this regard, we are pleased to note that there are 74 Ambassadors of non-ASEAN Member States currently accredited to ASEAN and the establishment of 40 ASEAN Committees in Third Countries around the globe.
56. We took note of the progress in the drafting of the General Guidelines for ASEAN’s Formal Engagement with External Parties which will include guidelines for the conferment of formal status on external parties as stipulated in Article 44 of the ASEAN Charter.
57. We adopted the Guidelines for the Convening of Commemorative Summits and Commemorative Activities between ASEAN and Dialogue Partners.
ASEAN-Australia
58. We welcomed the proposal of Australia to convene an ASEAN-Australia Commemorative Summit in 2014 to mark the 40th anniversary of the dialogue relations. We were encouraged by the progress made in implementing the ASEAN-Australia Development Cooperation Programme Phase II (AADCP II) 2008-2015 in supporting ASEAN on its economic integration policies and priorities, in line with the AEC Blueprint. We looked forward to the adoption of the ASEAN-Australia Plan of Action to Implement the ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Partnership (2014-2018) at the ASEAN-Australia Commemorative Summit in 2014 and welcomed the suggestion to extend the current Plan of Action to 2014. The Meeting acknowledged the progress on the implementation of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) agreement, including the implementation of the Economic Cooperation Work Programme projects, review of the AANZFTA Non-Tariff Measures and establishment of a regional mechanism for monitoring utilisation of tariff preferences.
ASEAN-Canada
59. We noted the progress on the implementation of the ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action to implement the Joint Declaration on ASEAN-Canada Enhanced Partnership (2010-2015). We welcomed the successful convening of the 1st ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM)-
Canada Consultations held on 31 August 2012 in Cambodia , which endorsed the 2012-2015 Work Plan to Implement the ASEAN-Canada Joint Declaration on Trade and Investment. We also welcomed the establishment of the Canada-ASEAN Business Council (CABC) on 31 August 2012 that will serve as a channel for future government-to-business engagement and to raise awareness of trade and investment opportunities in ASEAN and Canada .
60. We welcomed the successful convening of the inaugural ASEAN-Canada Joint Coordination Committee on 3 April 2013 in Jakarta and the adoption of the TOR of the ASEAN-Canada Enhanced Partnership Program that would enable Canada ’s CAD 10 million contribution to be utilised.
ASEAN-China
61. We welcomed the proposals made by ASEAN and China to organise activities to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership in 2013, including the Special ASEAN-China Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in China in August 2013; the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Roadshow to China in 2013; and the High-Level Forum on the 10th Anniversary of ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership in Thailand in August 2013. We noted with satisfaction the progress made on the implementation of the 2010 Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Declaration on the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity (2011-2015). We appreciated the efforts made by China in deepening ASEAN-China cooperation and strengthening coordination through the appointment of its first resident Ambassador of China to ASEAN and the establishment of the Mission of China to ASEAN in Jakarta in September 2012.
ASEAN-European Union
62. We noted with satisfaction the progress made to implement the Bandar Seri Begawan Plan of Action to Strengthen the ASEAN-EU Enhanced Partnership (2013-2017), which aims to give a more strategic focus to regional cooperation in a wide range of areas. We welcomed the progress in the implementation of the EU’s Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) 2011-2013. We noted with satisfaction the progress of two important programmes to facilitate ASEAN integration efforts, namely the ASEAN Regional Integration Support by the EU (ARISE) and the Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue Instrument (READI).
63. We stressed the importance of the ASEAN-EU Partnership and working with the EU to elevate the Partnership to a higher level. In this regard, we noted the intention of the President of the European Commission to have a dialogue with ASEAN.
64. We recognised the importance of enhancing economic cooperation between ASEAN and the EU and the implementation of ASEAN-EU Trade and Investment Work Program. In this regard, we noted the on-going Free Trade agreement negotiations between the EU and individual ASEAN Member States as “building blocks” towards the region–to–region FTA.
ASEAN-India
65. We welcomed the Vision Statement adopted at the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi in December 2012, including the Leaders declaration to elevate this relationship to a Strategic Partnership. We also welcomed the conclusion of negotiations of the Trade in Services and Investment Agreements and looked forward to the signing of these agreements during the 11th AEM-India Consultations in Brunei Darussalam in August 2013. In celebrating the 20th anniversary of ASEAN-India dialogue relations, we noted with appreciation the various initiatives held in 2012 to signify the expanding and deepening of the dialogue partnership.
66. We expressed satisfaction with the progress in the implementation of the ASEAN-India Plan of Action to implement the ASEAN-India Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared Prosperity (2010-2015). In this regard, we noted the on-going work on the Mid-Term Review of the ASEAN-India Plan of Action and suggested incorporation of the relevant short-term actionable goals from the Vision Statement. In this connection, we noted the launch of the ASEAN-India Centre in India .
ASEAN-Japan
67. Recognising that this year marks the 40th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan dialogue relations, we looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit in Tokyo on 13-15 December 2013. We noted with satisfaction the progress made in the implementation of the ASEAN-Japan Plan of Action 2011-2015.
68. We appreciate the significant contribution made by Japan to ASEAN community building, including through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), and welcomed Japan ’s decision to extend the JAIF to 31 December 2013 and the operations of the JAIF Management Team to 30 June 2014. We also expressed appreciation for Japan ’s support to the implementation of the IAI, particularly through the IAI Work Plan II (2009-2015), to help narrow the development gaps in ASEAN. We looked forward to a mechanism similar to JAIF to further facilitate ASEAN-Japan cooperation and further support the ASEAN community building process.
69. Recalling the ASEAN-Japan 10-year Strategic Economic Cooperation Roadmap, we welcomed the decision of the 15th ASEAN-Japan Summit in Cambodia in November 2012 of doubling bilateral trade and investment flows between ASEAN and Japan by 2022. We noted the on-going negotiations for the Trade in Services and Investment Chapters of the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Agreement and reaffirmed the urgency of expediting the conclusion of these negotiations by the Commemorative Summit in December 2013.
ASEAN-Republic of Korea
70. We welcomed the proposal made by the ROK to convene the ASEAN-Korea Special Summit, with substantive deliverables, in 2014 in the ROK as well as conduct commemorative activities in the same year to mark the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-ROK dialogue relations.
71. We also welcomed the progress made in implementing the Joint Declaration on ASEAN-ROK Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity and its Plan of Action (2011-2015), especially the Two Year Implementation Programme 2012-2013. We noted the ROK’s intention to further strengthen political and security cooperation with ASEAN as per the Plan of Action 2011-2015 to Implement the ASEAN-ROK Declaration on Strategic Partnership.
72. In facilitating closer cooperation and mutual understanding between ASEAN and the ROK, we noted with appreciation the appointment of the ROK resident Ambassador to ASEAN and the establishment of its Mission to ASEAN in Jakarta in October 2012. Pursuant to this we welcome the adoption of the revised Terms of Reference of the ASEAN-ROK Joint Cooperation Committee and look forward to the convening of the first ASEAN-ROK Joint Cooperation Committee in 2014.
73. We encouraged efforts to optimize many activities held by the ASEAN-Korea Centre to promote ASEAN-ROK cooperation, mainly in the three areas of trade and investment, culture and tourism, and public relations and information, which also include, among others, the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
ASEAN-New Zealand
74. We welcomed New Zealand ’s initiative to convene the ASEAN-New Zealand Commemorative Summit in 2015 to mark the 40th anniversary of the dialogue relations. We noted with appreciation the progress made on the Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Declaration for an ASEAN-New Zealand Comprehensive Partnership 2010-2015. We also welcomed the endorsement of the Proposed areas of focus for the ASEAN-New Zealand Comprehensive Partnership Framework’s Plan of Action 2013-2014, and looked forward to the effective implementation of activities under these focus areas, as well as the four flagship initiatives, namely the ASEAN-New Zealand Scholarship Programme, Young Business Leaders Exchange Programme, Initiatives on Disaster Risk Management and Emergency Response, and Agricultural Diplomacy.
ASEAN-Russia
75. We acknowledged with appreciation the progress made in implementing the Comprehensive Plan of Action to Promote Cooperation between ASEAN and the Russian Federation (2005 – 2015). We welcomed the various developments in advancing ASEAN-Russia relations, including the adoption of the Roadmap of the ASEAN-Russia Trade and
Investment Cooperation by the Economic Ministers of ASEAN and Russia in 2012, and looked forward to its effective implementation.
76. We note the importance of increasing cooperation in areas of tourism and culture, and in this regard we encourage all ASEAN Member States to ratify the ASEAN-Russia Agreement in Cultural Cooperation to do so expeditiously so that initiatives in the agreement can be duly implemented.
77. We took note with appreciation the convening of the ASEAN-Russia Youth Summit on 13-14 May 2013 in Moscow and the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum on 22 June 2013 in St. Petersburg as part of the effort to promote interaction between stakeholders in strengthening cooperation between ASEAN and Russia .
ASEAN-United States of America
78. We noted with appreciation on the progress made in implementing the Plan of Action to Implement the ASEAN-U.S. Enhanced Partnership for Enduring Peace and Prosperity 2011-2015. Recognising the recommendation of the ASEAN-U.S. Eminent Persons Group (EPG) to institutionalise the ASEAN-U.S. Leaders’ Meeting to an ASEAN-U.S. Summit, we looked forward to the 1st ASEAN-U.S. Summit to be held in Brunei Darussalam in October 2013. In this regard, we tasked our Senior Officials to review and consider the recommendations of the ASEAN-U.S. EPG as appropriate.
79. We appreciated the various initiatives by the U.S. in advancing ASEAN-U.S. economic cooperation, namely the 2013 ASEAN-U.S. Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement (TIFA) Work Plan and the ASEAN-U.S. Expanded Economic Engagement (E3) Initiative. We further welcomed the positive outcomes of the ASEAN Economic Ministers Roadshow to the United States held recently in June 2013.
ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation
80. We noted with appreciation the substantive progress on the implementation of the Second Joint Statement on the East Asia Cooperation and the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan (2007 – 2017) which provided strategic guidance for the future direction of the ASEAN Plus Three cooperation. In this regard, we adopted the paper on the Mid-Term Review of the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan (2007-2017) and looked forward to the Revised ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan (2013-2017) to be submitted to the 16th ASEAN Plus Three Summit in Bandar Seri Begawan in October 2013. We noted the recommendations contained in the report of the East Asia Vision Group II (EAVG II) and welcomed the proposal of the ROK to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the Report. We also adopted the Concept Paper on the Follow-Ups to the EAVG II Report as finalised by the CPR Plus Three Meeting.
81. We noted with appreciation the role of ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Fund in supporting the activities under the framework of ASEAN Plus Three cooperation and the recommendation on the replenishment of the Fund.
82. We welcomed the progress of enhancing the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), the consensus on the draft ASEAN +3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) Agreement that will transform AMRO into an international organisation, as well as the endorsement of the Asian Bond Markets Initiative (ABMI) New Roadmap+ Workplan, including the initiative on “Fostering Infrastructure Financing Bond Development”, at the 16th ASEAN +3 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting which took place in Delhi, India on 3 May 2013.
83. We reaffirmed the importance of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) Agreement as a permanent mechanism to ensure sustainable and integrated food security in the region. We also welcomed the establishment of the APTERR Secretariat in Thailand in March 2013 and looked forward to strengthen cooperation in food security by developing more initiatives to improve food storage capacity such as new technologies. We also encouraged the relevant sectoral bodies to explore the development of new food security reserve initiatives and mechanisms for other staple foods. In this regard, we underlined our support for the proposed creation of an ASEAN Plus Three Food Security Information System.
84. We welcomed the developments in a number of areas of cooperation within the ASEAN Plus Three framework which contributed towards the implementation of the Leaders’ Statement on ASEAN Plus Three Partnership on Connectivity. We also agreed that the ASEAN Plus Three Partnership on Connectivity be integrated into the existing ASEAN Plus Three mechanisms as an emerging priority area of the revised ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan (2013-2017).
ASEAN Regional Forum
85. We reaffirmed the ARF as the primary forum in enhancing political and security dialogue and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, while stressing ASEAN’s central role within the ARF process. We reiterated our commitment to implement the Ha Noi Plan of Action to Implement the ARF Vision Statement and the various work plans under the ARF framework. We underlined our Leaders’ direction to call for synergy between the ARF and various ASEAN-led mechanisms.
East Asia Summit
86. We recognise the valuable contribution of the EAS in the maintenance and promotion of peace, security, stability and prosperity in the region. In this regard, we reaffirmed our commitment to further promote the EAS as the leaders-led forum for dialogue and cooperation on broad strategic, political and economic issues of common interests based on the principles, objectives, and modalities of the EAS as reflected in the 2005 Kuala Lumpur Declaration, 2010 Ha Noi Declaration, and the 2011 Declaration on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations (Bali Principles).
87. Recalling the 2012 Phnom Penh Declaration on EAS Development Initiative, we welcomed the progress made in EAS cooperation especially in the six priority areas, namely energy and environment, education, finance, disaster management, health and ASEAN Connectivity, which contribute to deepening regional economic integration. We looked forward to meeting our counterparts from other EAS participating countries to further discuss ways and means to deepen EAS dialogue and cooperation in other strategic areas of cooperation such as maritime security, food and energy security, environment and biodiversity.
88. We discussed ASEAN’s common approach with regard to the future direction of the EAS as instructed by ASEAN Leaders at the 21st ASEAN Summit bearing in mind the Leaders-led, open and inclusive nature of the EAS with ASEAN playing a central role while working in close partnership with all EAS participating countries. We recalled the 2010 Ha Noi Declaration on the Commemoration of the 5th Anniversary of the East Asia Summit, and 2012 Chairman’s Statement of the 7th EAS that welcomed the proposal of Brunei Darussalam to conduct a stock-take review and reflection aimed at further consolidating and strengthening the EAS on the basis of its established principles, objectives and modalities and to provide recommendations to the 8th EAS.
89. We took note of the idea for an Indo-Pacific framework envisaged based on the principles contained in the TAC and in line with the 2011 Declaration of the East Asia Summit on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations (Bali Principles).
REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
South China Sea ( East Sea )
90. We discussed the situation and recent developments in the South China Sea ( East Sea ). In this regard, we appreciated the exchange of views on the issues including initiatives and approaches to enhance trust, confidence and dialogue, and address incidents in the South China Sea ( East Sea ). We also noted suggestions for a hotline of communication, as well as search and rescue of persons and vessels in distress. We further reaffirmed the importance of peace, stability, and maritime security in the region. We underscored the importance of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea ( East Sea ) (DOC), ASEAN’s Six-Point Principles on the South China Sea ( East Sea ), and the ASEAN-China Joint Statement on the 10th Anniversary of the DOC. In this regard, we reaffirmed the collective commitments under the DOC to ensuring the resolution of disputes by peaceful means in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, without resorting to the threat or use of force, while exercising self-restraint in the conduct of activities.
91. We looked forward to continued engagement with China in the full and effective implementation of the DOC in all its aspects. We would continue carrying out mutually agreed joint cooperative activities and projects in accordance with the Guidelines for the Implementation of the DOC. We stressed the need to maintain the positive momentum on dialogue and consultations following the 19th ASEAN-China Senior Officials Consultations and 8th ASEAN-China Joint Working Group on the Implementation of the DOC. Taking into account the importance of the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership in 2013, we look forward to the formal consultations between ASEAN and China at the SOM level on the COC with an aim to reach an early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (East Sea), which will serve to enhance peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
Situation in the Middle East
92. We reaffirmed our support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people for an independent state of Palestine and a two-state solution where both countries and peoples can live side by side in peace. We called on all parties to make efforts for the resumption of peace talks and remove obstacles related thereto, in particular the construction of illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories .
93. We reiterated that the stalemate of diplomacy with regard to the Syrian issue must be immediately resolved. In this regard, we support the ongoing efforts of the international community, notably the United Nations, to promote a peaceful and viable solution to the situation in the country.
Developments on the Korean Peninsula
94. We expressed concern over the developments in the Korean Peninsula . We encouraged the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) to comply fully with its obligations under all relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions and to its commitments under the 19 September 2005 Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks. We reaffirmed our full support for all efforts to bring about the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner as well as the early resumption of the Six-Party Talks. We emphasised the importance of dialogue aimed at promoting mutual understanding and confidence among all parties concerned with ensuring peace, security and stability on the Korean Peninsula . In this regard, we recommended that the ARF, where all six members to the Six-Party Talks are also participants, could contribute to forging a conducive atmosphere for the resumption of the Six-Party Talks.
Group of Twenty (G20)
95. Acknowledging the importance of the continued participation of the ASEAN Chair in the G20 Summits, we looked forward to the G20 St. Petersburg Summit in September 2013 and the development of the ASEAN Position Paper to the G20 Summit which will reflect ASEAN’s views on the G20 agenda, as well as our perspectives on current global and regional issues.
Post-2015 Development Agenda
96. We noted the submission of the report titled A New Global Partnership: Eradicate Poverty and Transform Economies Through Sustainable Development by the United Nations High Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post 2015 Development Agenda, co-chaired by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, to the Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
97. We acknowledged the important role that the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) plays in regional economic integration in the Asia Pacific region, in particular in promoting free and open trade and investment as well as in strengthening capacity building. In this regard, we expressed our full support for the APEC 2013 chairmanship of Indonesia in playing a leading role to further these objectives, through its three priorities of ‘Attaining the Bogor Goals’, ‘Achieving Sustainable Growth with Equity’ and ‘Promoting Connectivity’.
47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting
98. We looked forward to the 47th AMM/PMC/21st ARF/4th EAS-FMM to be held in Myanmar in 2014.”.-VNA
