ASEAN leaders discuss Iran war impact and regional energy security at summit

Regional leaders focus on energy crisis

Southeast Asian leaders gathered in the Philippines for the ASEAN summit to discuss the growing economic and energy challenges caused by the ongoing Iran war. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said the conflict has increased living costs and threatened livelihoods across the region and among Southeast Asian workers living in the Middle East.

Marcos urged ASEAN member states to improve coordination and adopt practical measures to secure stable energy supplies. The region has faced serious disruptions after the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil and gas route, became heavily restricted during the conflict.

ASEAN pushes for stronger cooperation

ASEAN is expected to release a joint statement calling for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and stronger regional cooperation on energy and food security. The bloc is also discussing plans for a voluntary energy-sharing agreement to help member states manage future supply disruptions.

The Philippines has additionally promoted the idea of an ASEAN power grid that would connect regional electricity systems by 2045. Several countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia, have already introduced emergency energy-saving measures such as fuel price controls and work-from-home policies.

Petrochemical companies in parts of Southeast Asia have also declared force majeure because of supply disruptions linked to the conflict.

Concerns over regional security remain

The summit is also expected to focus on regional security and freedom of navigation, especially as tensions continue in the South China Sea. Many ASEAN members remain concerned about competing territorial claims and growing military activity in the area.

Leaders from Thailand and Cambodia also held discussions on their ongoing border tensions during the summit. Although both countries pledged to continue dialogue and allow observers near the disputed border, no final resolution was announced.

ASEAN leaders are expected to continue talks on economic cooperation, regional stability and long-term energy security as the impact of the Iran war continues to spread across Asia.