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ASEAN foreign ministers have urged an immediate diplomatic and peaceful resolution to the escalating crisis in the Middle East, warning that the conflict could have serious repercussions on global energy prices, inflation, and food security across the region.
The ministers issued a joint statement following a special meeting conducted via video conference on Friday, expressing grave concern over the intensifying situation.
They called on all parties to cease hostilities, exercise restraint, avoid actions that could further aggravate tensions, and ensure the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure.
“This meeting reaffirmed the obligation of all countries to resolve differences through peaceful means and to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Charter,” the chair’s statement read.
The ministers also underscored a collective commitment to provide emergency assistance to ASEAN citizens in affected areas, in line with the ASEAN Declaration.
Highlighting the wider economic implications, ASEAN foreign ministers stressed the importance of maintaining stable and secure global energy supply chains and maritime trade routes, while minimising disruptions to essential goods and food supplies to safeguard economic stability in the region.
They further emphasised strengthening regional cooperation in security, energy diversification, connectivity, and economic resilience.
The ministers encouraged the full utilisation of existing mechanisms and frameworks, including the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA), the ASEAN Power Grid, and the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline, to enhance consultations, information sharing, and regional resilience.
Speaking from Bangkok, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow noted that the ministers had assessed potential impacts and discussed strategies to mitigate them using existing ASEAN mechanisms such as APSA, which facilitates voluntary oil sharing among member states during supply shortages.
“Each member country has taken steps to minimise the impact by reducing energy use in various ways. Perhaps we need to consider how these frameworks can be applied more effectively in situations like this,” he said.
Sihasak also highlighted the ASEAN Power Grid, noting that a major grid connecting Laos to Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore enables Laos to supply hydroelectric power to countries along the network. He added that the bloc is exploring clean energy cooperation with major oil-producing nations.
On humanitarian support, Sihasak confirmed that ASEAN members had agreed to provide cross-border protection and assistance to citizens in high-risk areas, especially where some countries do not maintain a diplomatic mission.
He cited Singapore arranging a chartered flight to Saudi Arabia that also evacuated citizens from other ASEAN member states.
The special meeting, proposed by Thailand, was chaired by the Philippines in its capacity as ASEAN Chair. - March 14, 2026