UK Foreign Secretary Affirms London's 'Long-Term' Commitment to ASEAN
Newly appointed UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has reaffirmed Britain’s “long-term” commitment to enhancing cooperation with ASEAN while calling for peaceful resolutions to international disputes.
During the ASEAN-UK Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Manila, which marked his first overseas visit since taking office, Miliband said the occasion reflected London’s significant attention to its partnership with ASEAN.
“It is important, very important for me to be here in person at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ meeting as a sign of solidarity with ASEAN countries,” Miliband said, as quoted by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) on Wednesday.
“The message I most want to convey today… is the UK’s commitment to ASEAN and its long-term commitment,” he added.
Highlighting the five-year milestone of the ASEAN-UK dialogue partnership, Miliband welcomed the establishment of a new five-year cooperation action plan and affirmed the UK’s commitment to “ASEAN centrality” and a rules-based regional order.
On the Middle East, Miliband stressed that the UK would continue to champion a “just and lasting peace”, following its decision to recognise Palestinian sovereignty. He urged the international community “not to forget the suffering of those in Gaza and the West Bank” while pursuing security for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Turning to the conflict between the United States and Iran, the UK Foreign Secretary welcomed the peace memorandum signed between Washington and Tehran last June. However, he also condemned Iran’s subsequent attacks on merchant vessels and US allies in the Gulf region.
The UK will seek to promote “de-escalation of conflict and a diplomatic solution” in efforts to restore shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and uphold freedom of navigation, he said.
Miliband also reiterated London’s unwavering support for Ukraine, which “continues to defend itself against Russia’s unprovoked and premeditated aggression”.
He also expressed hope that the UK could become a permanent member of the ASEAN Regional Forum, which he described as an important platform for dialogue and cooperation.