Philippines Welcomes U.S.’ Role in ASEAN and Rules-Based International Order

Philippine Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs and SOM Leader Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro represents the Philippines during the 36th ASEAN-US Senior Officials’ Dialogue. (Photo courtesy of the Indonesian Embassy in Washington)

WASHINGTON D.C. 31 May 2024 – Emphasizing the crucial role of maritime cooperation in preserving peace and security in the IndoPacific, Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro welcomed the U.S.’ support for the rules-based international order underpinned by international law.

US Senior Official Meetings (SOM) Leader Daniel J. Krittenbrink reiterated the U.S.’ support for ASEAN Centrality with ASEAN at the center of its the U.S.’ IndoPacific Strategy. The Strategy seeks to boost engagement with ASEAN and ASEAN Member States in the economic, political security and socio-cultural fields. 

As a peaceful and stable IndoPacific means progress and prosperity for all, Undersecretary Lazaro expressed hope for a future where freedom of navigation and overflight and the non-use of force or threat of the use of force is the inviolable norm, and looked forward to the U.S.’ increased role in ASEAN – advancing shared values of democracy and freedom from all forms of coercion and intimidation. 

The ASEAN-U.S. Dialogue is held annually to discuss emerging issues and matters of common concern. END