BANGKOK, Thailand – The 46th ASEAN Summit, hosted by Malaysia, is scheduled to take place from May 26–27. During this summit, ASEAN is expected to officially announce Vision 2045, which aims to build a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN. The Vision 2045 framework outlines a comprehensive approach across multiple sectors.
Political and Security Pillar
ASEAN remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a peaceful, stable, and secure region. This vision is grounded in the fundamental principles set forth in the ASEAN Charter, the United Nations Charter, and established international legal frameworks. Member states pledge to uphold and advance regional peace, ensuring that disputes are resolved through peaceful means in accordance with widely recognized international legal principles. ASEAN categorically rejects the use of force or threats, reinforcing its dedication to diplomacy and cooperative engagement.
Economic Pillar
ASEAN member states have agreed to become key players in the global economy by forming a unified market that is future-ready, built on sustainable growth and good governance. They aim to leverage advanced technologies effectively and respond swiftly to emerging opportunities. Additionally, ASEAN nations are committed to establishing a strong and mutually beneficial economic community with a diverse range of external partners. This approach reinforces ASEAN’s central role while generating added value for all stakeholders involved.
Cultural and Social Pillars
ASEAN member states have agreed to build a people-centered community that facilitates seamless and efficient movement of people, goods, and services, while fostering shared ownership and a common ASEAN identity. They are also committed to developing a community that prioritizes unlocking potential and improving the quality of life for all citizens—especially vulnerable groups—ensuring that no one is left behind.
Connectivity
ASEAN member states have agreed to build a closely integrated community. ASEAN will adopt a whole-of-community approach to enhance connectivity by promoting various initiatives and engaging in multilateral and subregional cooperation frameworks.
Within ASEAN, Thailand and Vietnam are seen as key members with closely aligned priorities. They often assume leadership roles in succession and support each other’s initiatives. Together, they advocate for regional peace, stability, and a rules-based international order, especially in addressing critical issues such as the South China Sea disputes and the sustainable management of the Mekong River. Earlier this month, the two countries held their 4th Joint Cabinet Meeting and upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. At the upcoming summit, Thailand and Vietnam will continue working closely with other member states to advance ASEAN’s vision of becoming a central force for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.
Vietnam’s Contributions
Vietnam has been a member of ASEAN for three decades. ASEAN’s growth has been closely tied to Vietnam’s development, which in turn embodies ASEAN’s collective progress. In recent years, Vietnam has become increasingly confident and proactive, with its role in ASEAN clearly defined through its active contributions to key regional initiatives.
In 2020, as ASEAN Chair, Vietnam demonstrated exceptional leadership in guiding ASEAN through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining regional solidarity and unity. In 2024, Vietnam proposed and hosted the ASEAN Future Forum, showcasing its strategic vision by creating a platform for leaders, experts, businesses, and scholars to discuss emerging trends shaping the region’s future. Building on that success, the ASEAN Future Forum 2025 remains one of Vietnam’s most significant multilateral diplomatic initiatives.
In ASEAN cooperation mechanisms, Vietnam consistently emphasizes consultation and coordination with all members. It remains committed to building a peaceful, stable, and law-abiding Southeast Asia, especially in addressing pressing issues like the South China Sea and Mekong River management. This reflects Vietnam’s dedication to upholding international legal frameworks and fostering regional stability and sustainable development.
Strengthening bilateral relations with all Southeast Asian countries remains a top priority in Vietnam’s foreign policy. Besides Thailand, Vietnam has recently upgraded its Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships with several regional nations, including Singapore (March 2025), Indonesia (March 2025), and Malaysia (November 2024).
Looking Ahead
As ASEAN prepares to issue the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN Vision 2045 at the 46th ASEAN Summit, all member states—led by key partners such as Thailand and Vietnam—will continue working closely together to realize ASEAN’s aspiration of becoming a central force for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development. (NNT)
