ASEAN Summit Begins in Malaysia Addressing US Tariffs, Myanmar Crisis, South China Sea

The 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia is convening amid significant regional and global challenges, with leaders focusing on economic resilience, the Myanmar crisis, and maritime disputes in the South China Sea. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, chairing the summit, emphasized ASEAN's efforts to enhance intra-bloc cooperation, investment initiatives, and the revival of a regional monetary fund to counteract the impact of recent U.S. tariffs. ASEAN members are expected to express deep concern over the unilateral U.S. tariffs, which have strained export-driven economies and heightened geopolitical tensions. The summit also marks critical engagement with strategic partners, including China and the Gulf Cooperation Council, with Beijing attending to promote new commercial ties despite ongoing South China Sea territorial disputes. Experts highlight Malaysia's progressive leadership role and ASEAN's commitment to the Community Vision 2045, focusing on political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars amid development disparities. The summit underscores ASEAN’s balancing act amid U.S.-China rivalry, seeking unity and solutions to humanitarian and security issues, particularly in Myanmar.