Focus on Regional Stability: ASEAN Strengthens Maritime Cooperation
Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation at the 48th Summit in Cebu, Philippines, yesterday. The agreement aims to realise peace, security, and prosperity in Southeast Asia within the framework of international law.
“We agree to strengthen maritime cooperation in the areas of law enforcement, defence, security and navigation safety, as well as maritime transport connectivity,” states an excerpt from the joint declaration, as broadcast on the official ASEAN 2026 website and viewed on Saturday (9 May 2026).
ASEAN leaders also agreed to expand cooperation in search and rescue operations (SAR). Additionally, collaboration includes the protection of the marine environment, handling of maritime pollution, and submarine infrastructure. This extends to the blue economy, marine science, maritime research, and related sectors.
The ASEAN leaders’ declaration also agrees to optimise the ASEAN Coast Guard Forum (ACF) as a platform for maritime law enforcement cooperation.
This step is taken through capacity building to improved coordination with relevant institutions in Southeast Asia.
ASEAN also commits to intensifying maritime cooperation through various mechanisms, such as the ACF, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), East Asia Summit (EAS), and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).
ASEAN leaders affirmed that regional maritime cooperation will be implemented by considering the UN Charter, the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and other international laws and norms.
ASEAN member states agreed to promote further understanding of maritime issues through the establishment of the ASEAN Maritime Centre. This institution will be based in the Philippines.
Regarding the Code of Conduct (CoC) in the South China Sea, ASEAN agreed to continue negotiations in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.
ASEAN leaders also supported strengthening maritime cooperation with external partners. This is done while prioritising ASEAN Centrality, including the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).
On the same occasion, Southeast Asian leaders adopted a joint statement on ASEAN’s response to the Middle East crisis, which impacts regional energy and economic stability.
The 48th ASEAN Summit, held under the Philippine Chairmanship, carries the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together” and was officially opened by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday (8 May 2026).