ISLAMABAD, The ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI) has reaffirmed its commitment to stronger cooperation with Pakistan in trade, investment, digital transformation and other key areas.
The committee represents the diplomatic missions of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam in Islamabad.
The ACI issued a joint statement to mark the 59th Anniversary of the founding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
ASEAN Marks 59 Years of Regional Cooperation
The committee highlighted ASEAN’s journey since the signing of the ASEAN Declaration in Bangkok on August 8, 1967.
It said ASEAN has developed into a dynamic and influential regional community.
The organization continues to follow key principles of mutual respect, peaceful dispute settlement and non-interference.
According to the statement, these principles remain central to ASEAN’s efforts to promote regional peace and stability.
2026 Marks New Phase for ASEAN
The ACI described 2026 as an important year for ASEAN.
This year marks the start of implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
The long-term roadmap aims to build a resilient, innovative and people-centered regional community.
The year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC).
The treaty remains an important framework for peaceful relations in the region.
Timor-Leste Joins ASEAN
The ACI also welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member state.
The committee described the development as historic.
It said the new membership would strengthen ASEAN’s community-building efforts.
The expansion also reflects the organization’s continued regional integration.
ASEAN Sets Three Priorities for 2026
The Philippines holds the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026.
The bloc is working under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.”
The ACI identified three main priorities under this theme:
- Peace and Security Anchors
- People Empowerment
- Prosperity Corridors
The committee said ASEAN would use these priorities to strengthen regional peace, support communities and promote economic growth.
ASEAN Highlights Digital Transformation
ASEAN also plans to expand digital transformation and sustainable development.
The committee said regional cooperation can empower communities through inclusion and innovation.
It also stressed the importance of ASEAN Centrality.
The ACI said ASEAN draws strength from diversity and mutual trust rather than uniformity.
ASEAN Reaffirms Partnership With Pakistan
The joint statement placed strong emphasis on ASEAN’s relationship with Pakistan.
The ACI noted that Pakistan has engaged with ASEAN since receiving Sectoral Dialogue Partnership status in 1993.
Pakistan also acceded to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in 2004.
The committee highlighted Pakistan’s participation in the ASEAN Regional Forum as an important channel for regional cooperation.
Key Areas for ASEAN-Pakistan Cooperation
The ACI encouraged deeper cooperation between ASEAN and Pakistan in several areas.
These include:
- Trade and investment
- Connectivity and digital transformation
- Education and climate resilience
- Tourism and human resource development
- Science and technology
- People-to-people exchanges
The committee said these areas could provide new opportunities for practical cooperation.
ASEAN to Maintain Strong Presence in Pakistan
The ACI reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong collective presence in Pakistan.
The committee said it would work with the Government of Pakistan, diplomatic missions, academic institutions and civil society.
The goal is to promote greater understanding and practical cooperation between ASEAN and Pakistan.
The ACI also acknowledged the challenges created by geopolitical uncertainty and climate change.
ASEAN Highlights People-to-People Ties
The committee said ASEAN’s strength goes beyond its economic and strategic importance.
It highlighted the bonds among the peoples of Southeast Asia.
The ACI also stressed the shared goal of building a peaceful, inclusive, resilient and prosperous region.
The committee concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the ASEAN theme of “Navigating Our Future, Together.”
It said ASEAN looks forward to working with Pakistan and international partners to promote peace, prosperity, resilience and inclusivity.
The organization continues to follow its official motto: “ASEAN: One Vision, One Identity, One Community.”
