What Happened at the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meet in Malaysia?
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Synopsis
Discover the highlights and discussions from the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur. With a focus on strengthening cooperation and addressing regional issues, this meeting marks a significant milestone as the EAS celebrates its 20th anniversary. Join us as we delve into the outcomes and implications of this pivotal gathering.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening EAS Cooperation: The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration among member countries.
- Commitment to a Free Indo-Pacific: Discussions emphasized the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
- 20th Anniversary Celebrations: The EAS commemorates its 20 years of promoting dialogue and cooperation.
- Participation from Diverse Nations: The meeting included representatives from 18 countries, showcasing regional unity.
- Future Direction: Leaders discussed the strategic direction of EAS in the coming years.
Kuala Lumpur, July 11 (NationPress) The 15th East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) convened on Friday in the heart of Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur, to evaluate the ongoing EAS collaboration and chart its future course.
The leaders also shared insights regarding regional and international developments.
“The EAS participating nations reiterated their dedication to further enhancing the EAS as a Leaders-led platform for dialogue and cooperation on strategic, political, and economic matters of shared interest and concern, especially as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the EAS this year,” posted ASEAN on its official X handle.
“The meeting saw participation from Foreign Ministers or their representatives from EAS member countries, along with the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Kao Kim Hourn. Notably, Timor-Leste participated as an Observer,” the post continued.
The EAS stands as the premier Leaders-led forum in the Asia-Pacific. Since its establishment in 2005, it has significantly influenced the strategic, geopolitical, and economic landscape of East Asia, comprising 18 member nations.
In addition to the 10 ASEAN Member states: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, the EAS also includes India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Russia.
Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday evening at the invitation of the current ASEAN Chair, Malaysia, to engage in the ASEAN-India FMM, the 15th East Asia Summit FMM, and the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum taking place from July 10–11, as part of the 58th ASEAN FMM and related events.
Last month, during the East Asia Summit Senior Officials' Meeting (EAS SOM) in Penang, Malaysia, P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the critical role of EAS in fostering a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
Kumaran, who led the Indian delegation, articulated New Delhi's stance on various regional and international issues as this prominent forum observes its 20th anniversary this year.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of the EAS in fostering diplomatic relations and addressing critical issues in the Asia-Pacific region. This summit not only highlights the collaborative spirit among member nations but also reinforces the need for a united front in addressing shared challenges. The discussions and commitments made here are pivotal for future stability and progress.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the East Asia Summit?
The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a premier leaders-led forum for dialogue and cooperation on strategic, political, and economic issues in the Asia-Pacific region, comprising 18 participating countries.
When was the 15th EAS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held?
The 15th EAS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting took place on July 11, 2023, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
What was discussed during the meeting?
The meeting reviewed ongoing EAS cooperation, discussed future directions, and exchanged views on regional and international developments.
Who attended the meeting?
Foreign Ministers or their representatives from EAS participating countries attended, along with the Secretary-General of ASEAN and an Observer from Timor-Leste.
What is the significance of the EAS 20th anniversary?
The 20th anniversary of EAS marks a significant milestone in promoting dialogue and cooperation in the region, reinforcing commitments among member nations.
