ISLAMABAD, August 19, 2026: The ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI) has reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace, prosperity, resilience and inclusivity while highlighting the growing importance of stronger ASEAN-Pakistan relations.In a joint statement issued to mark the 59th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the ACI, comprising the diplomatic missions of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Viet Nam, underscored the importance of dialogue, consultation, consensus and mutual trust in addressing regional challenges.
The Committee highlighted ASEAN’s transformation into a dynamic and increasingly influential regional community guided by the ASEAN Charter and principles of mutual respect, peaceful settlement of disputes, non-interference, cooperation and adherence to international law.The statement noted that 2026 marks the first year of implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, aimed at building a more resilient, innovative, dynamic, integrated and people-centered ASEAN.
The year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.The ACI welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th Member State, describing its membership as a historic step towards a more inclusive and cohesive Southeast Asian community.Under the Philippines’ chairship in 2026, ASEAN is pursuing the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” with three key priorities: peace and security anchors, people empowerment and prosperity corridors.
The ACI emphasized that these priorities seek to promote regional peace and stability, empower communities through inclusion and innovation, and advance economic integration, connectivity, digital transformation and sustainable development.Stronger ASEAN-Pakistan PartnershipOn ASEAN-Pakistan relations, the Committee underscored the importance of further strengthening the partnership, recalling that Pakistan was accorded Sectoral Dialogue Partnership status with ASEAN in 1993 and acceded to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia in 2004.
Pakistan’s participation in the ASEAN Regional Forum and expanding bilateral cooperation with ASEAN Member States were highlighted as important platforms for enhancing mutual understanding and practical cooperation.The ACI called for greater Pakistan-ASEAN engagement in areas including trade and investment, connectivity, digital transformation, education, climate resilience, tourism, human resource development, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges.It also recognized the important role of academic institutions, businesses, cultural organizations and civil society in deepening relations between Pakistan and Southeast Asia.Amid geopolitical uncertainty, economic disruptions, technological transformation and climate-related challenges, the Committee reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen ASEAN’s collective engagement and presence in Pakistan.
The ACI said it would continue working with the Government of Pakistan, diplomatic partners, academic institutions, business communities and other stakeholders to promote greater understanding and cooperation.Concluding the statement, the Committee emphasized that ASEAN’s strength lies not only in its economic dynamism and strategic importance but also in the enduring bonds among its peoples and their shared commitment to building a peaceful, inclusive, resilient and prosperous region.“ASEAN: One Vision, One Identity, One Community.”
