[Title] CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT OF THE ASEAN POST MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE (PMC) 10+1 SESSIONS WITH THE DIALOGUE PARTNERS, "PARTNERING FOR CHANGE, ENGAGING THE WORLD"

1. The ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference (PMC) 10+1 Sessions with ASEAN's Dialogue Partners, namely Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, and the United States of America were held in Manila, Philippines on 6 August 2017.

2. These Meetings provided the opportunity for ASEAN and the Dialogue Partners to review their cooperation over the past year and further deepen their cooperation, strengthen their engagement, as well as to ensure the effective implementation of the respective Plans of Action to elevate cooperation in all areas. These meetings also served as avenues for the Ministers to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest and concern, collectively and constructively address global developments and existing, emerging and transboundary challenges and strengthen development cooperation with ASEAN.

3. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to preserving and enhancing peace, security and stability in the region, strengthening the mutually beneficial relations between ASEAN and its Dialogue Partners, and supporting the centrality and proactive role of ASEAN in the evolving regional architecture that is open, transparent and inclusive, while remaining actively engaged, forward-looking and non-discriminatory.

4. The Ministers of the Dialogue Partners congratulated ASEAN on its 50th Anniversary on 8 August 2017, which represents a major milestone in its history as a model of regionalism. They also welcomed various commemorative activities being undertaken to mark this historic event, including those in partnership with Dialogue Partners.

5. The Ministers of ASEAN Member Countries expressed appreciation for the support of Dialogue Partners for UN General Assembly Resolution A/71/L.76 entitled "Commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Southeast Asian Nations", the first commemorative resolution by a regional group, which was adopted by consensus on 19 July 2017.

6. The Ministers expressed support for the six thematic priorities under the Philippine Chairmanship of ASEAN, namely: (i) A people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN; (ii) Peace and stability in the region; (iii) Maritime security and cooperation; (iv) Inclusive and innovation-led growth; (v) A resilient ASEAN; and (vi) ASEAN: A model of regionalism, a global player. They also reiterated support for ASEAN's ongoing integration, Connectivity and Community-building efforts and the realization of the goals enshrined in the ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together, the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan III. They lauded ongoing efforts to effectively implement the MPAC 2025 and the realization of its five strategic areas, namely, Sustainable Infrastructure; Digital Innovation; Seamless Logistics; Regulatory Excellence; and People Mobility. They noted the importance of resource mobilization, quality of infrastructure, and cooperation with Dialogue Partners, external parties and international institutions as well as other relevant stakeholders, in realizing the goals of these strategic areas in accordance with relevant international standards.

7. The Ministers of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Participating Countries noted the progress made to date and encouraged all Parties to intensify efforts to swiftly conclude negotiations to achieve a modern, comprehensive, high-quality and mutually beneficial RCEP agreement.

Australia

8. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with Australia was co-chaired by H.E. U Kyaw Tin, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and the Honourable Julie Bishop MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia.

9. The Meeting noted the progress of the ASEAN-Australia Plan of Action (2015- 2019) to implement the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Partnership. As strategic partners, ASEAN and Australia continue to further deepen cooperation in all areas identified under the Plan of Action and through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM) Plus and the Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF). The decision to hold biennial ASEAN-Australia Summits, starting in 2016, represented a significant milestone in the political and security cooperation between the two sides.

10. The Meeting welcomed the convening of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, including the two side events, namely the Business Summit and ASEAN-Australia Counter-Terrorism Conference, in Sydney, Australia on 17-18 March 2018, with the theme "Enhancing Regional Security and Prosperity" as another step to further enhance high-level engagements and dialogues between the two sides and strengthen the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Partnership. The Meeting also welcomed the holding of the second ASEAN-Australia Biennial Summit at the margins of the 13th East Asia Summit in Singapore in 2018.

11. Both sides expressed deep concern about the growing threat of terrorism and violent extremism. The Meeting agreed on the importance of working closely together in the region and beyond to combat terrorism at its source, stem the flow of foreign fighters to conflict zones and manage the threat from those who return, including through leader and official-level discussions at the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit. Both sides underlined the need to enhance cooperation to detect, disrupt, investigate, and prosecute terrorist offenders.

12. The Meeting acknowledged the great potential to advance the ASEAN-Australia- New Zealand-Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) for mutual benefit, especially in improving MSME access to the region's value chain. ASEAN acknowledged Australia's firm commitment to support the implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 (MPAC 2025) and encouraged Australia to look to Southeast Asia as a natural partner in better connectivity and cost-effective transport links, including BIMP-EAGA as a platform for this purpose.

13. The Meeting appreciated Australia's continued support for the work of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) including through its secondment of Australian experts to the AHA Centre.

14. The Meeting noted the expansion of the New Colombo Plan to all ASEAN Member States, a transformational initiative that will deepen Australia's relationship with the region, both at the people-to-people level and through the expansion of links with universities. The Meeting also noted several programs under the Australia-ASEAN Council (AAC) such as the BRIDGE School Partnerships Program and the Australia- ASEAN Emerging Leaders' Program in intensifying business and education linkages between ASEAN and Australia.

15. The Meeting acknowledged the importance of enhancing collaboration in addressing the threats from emerging infectious diseases. The Meeting reaffirmed their commitment to support the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance (APLMA) Malaria Elimination Roadmap, which will strengthen ASEAN's institutional capacity to achieve the goal of an Asia-Pacific free of malaria by 2030

16. The Meeting discussed the future direction of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations and identified key areas of sustained cooperation, including countering radicalism and extremism, maritime security and cooperation, cybersecurity, combatting Trafficking in Persons, biodiversity and other cross-border issues.

17. The Meeting emphasized the importance of closer ASEAN-Australia engagement through various development programs, such as the ASEAN-Australia Development Cooperation Program Phase II (AADCP II); the ASEAN-Australia New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) and its Economic Cooperation Support Program (AECSP); Shaping Inclusive Finance Transformations Program (SHIFT); Women's Economic Leadership and Empowerment in ASEAN (WEL ASEAN); Australia-Asia Program to Combat Trafficking in Persons (AAPTIP); Preventing the Exploitation of Migrant Women Workers in ASEAN Project; and Tripartite Action to Enhance the Contribution of Labour Migration to Growth and Development in ASEAN (TRIANGLE in ASEAN). The Meeting noted Australia's current priorities with ASEAN, involving the ASEAN Economic Community, service sector, consumer protection, connectivity, and Smart Cities Initiative.

18. Recognising that women's economic empowerment is a key driver of sustainable economic growth, the Meeting discussed the importance of improving gender equality and removing barriers to women's full workforce participation, to help regional economies reach their full potential. The Meeting welcomed Australia and the Philippines' co-hosting of a Forum on Women's Economic Empowerment on 29 August 2017, in celebration of ASEAN's 50th anniversary.

19. ASEAN noted Australia's candidature for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2018-2020 term.

CANADA

20. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with Canada was co-chaired by H.E. Enrique A. Manalo, Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, and the Honorable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada.

21. The Meeting noted the progress under the Plan of Action (POA) to implement the Joint Declaration on the ASEAN-Canada Enhanced Partnership (2016-2020). ASEAN and Canada continue to pursue the goals set forth in the Joint Declaration to further deepen and enhance ASEAN-Canada partnership in all areas of common interest, including terrorism and transnational crimes, trade and investment, human rights including the rights of women and children, disaster management and climate change, building upon the encouraging achievements made in the implementation of the previous Plan of Action (2010-2015).

22. The Meeting noted that ASEAN-Canada Dialogue Relations continue to follow an upward trajectory as both sides celebrate their 40th Anniversary of Dialogue Relations, the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN and Canada's 150th Anniversary of Confederation. The Meeting noted various commemorative activities undertaken to celebrate four decades of mutually-beneficial partnership, including official statements from ASEAN and Canada to mark this important milestone and the launch of an anniversary logo by Canada. ASEAN also recognised Canada's efforts to elevate ASEAN's profile in Canada, notably by organizing a high-level conference where the Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Le Luong Minh, the Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honorable Chrystia Freeland, and former Canadian Prime Minister, the Right Honorable Joe Clark delivered statements. The Meeting was informed of the invitation extended to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as Guest of the Chair at the East Asia Summit in November this year.

23. The Meeting anticipated a richer ASEAN-Canada agenda more sharply focused on ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and its Blueprints as well as Canada's six priority areas, namely counter-terrorism and counter-proliferation; innovation; gender equality and women's rights; combatting and managing the effects of climate change; water, resource management and oceans; and pluralism and diversity. ASEAN took note of Canada's intention to further expand its regional engagement through participation in the EAS and the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus).

24. The Meeting appreciated Canada's co-chairing and hosting of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Intersessional Support Group Meeting on Confidence Building Measures and Preventive Diplomacy and the ARF Defence Officials Dialogue in May 2017 in Ottawa and Canada's co-chairing of the ARF Intersessional Meeting on Non- Proliferation and Disarmament from 2015-2017. Both sides agreed to continue working together in the ARF to address issues related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The Meeting also recognized Canada's ongoing efforts to mitigate biological threats in Southeast Asia through its ongoing $11.6 million commitment. The Meeting recognised that Canada has increased its capacity-building efforts in the region, with ongoing programming totaling $80 million approximately.

25. The Meeting recognized the challenges faced by migrant workers and the benefits they provide to ASEAN economies. ASEAN welcomed Prime Minister Trudeau's announcement in September 2016 of Canada's support, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), for ASEAN's regional efforts aimed at strengthening policies to protect migrant workers, particularly women. The $5.5 million project aims to promote equitable economic and social benefits, and help to improve job mobility for migrant workers across ASEAN.

26. The Meeting affirmed ASEAN and Canada's shared commitment to free, open, and fair economies as a cornerstone of the ASEAN-Canada relationship. The Meeting further agreed to work together to convey the importance of a rules-based international trading system. The Meeting welcomed the successful ASEAN-Canada Trade Policy Dialogue in Cebu on 5 July 2017 and the significant progress on a preliminary joint feasibility study for a potential ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement.

27. The Meeting welcomed Canada's new flagship $10 million ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) project. The project will provide opportunities for Southeast Asian youth and mid-career professionals, particularly women and those from CLMV countries, to undertake short-term studies in Canada that will equip them to combat poverty in the ASEAN region. Both sides recognised the potential for this scholarship to significantly increase the people-to-people linkages between ASEAN and Canada. The Meeting noted ASEAN's interest in intensifying cooperation in remaining action lines under the POA including science, technology, innovation, climate change and youth and culture.

28. The Meeting agreed that climate change is a pressing global concern and reaffirmed ASEAN and Canada's commitment to the Paris Climate Accord. The Meeting noted Canada's $200 million Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in Asia II with the Asian Development Bank.

29. The Meeting appreciated the achievements of ASEAN-Canada cooperation in the last four decades across a wide range of areas which have strengthened and enhanced their relations as well as contributed to regional peace, security, stability and prosperity.

CHINA

30. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with China was co-chaired by H.E. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore, and H.E. Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China.

31. The Meeting noted with satisfaction that ASEAN and China continue to strengthen their strategic partnership in a wide range of political-security, economic, and socio- cultural areas through the effective implementation of the 2016-2020 Plan of Action to implement the Joint Declaration on ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership. As strategic partners, ASEAN and China continue to further deepen cooperation in all areas identified under the Plan of Action and through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the EAS, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM Plus.

32. The Meeting noted the good progress in ASEAN-China cooperation since the last PMC, including:

- The successful commemoration of the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations, and deepening cooperation in educational exchanges in conjunction with the theme for ASEAN-China relations in 2016.

- The issuance of the Joint Statement of the 19th ASEAN-China Summit to Commemorate the 25th Anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations and a number of other important outcome documents of the said Summit, namely

(i) Joint Statement on Production Capacity Cooperation; (ii) Joint Statement on the Application of the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) in the South China Sea; (iii) Guidelines for Hotline Communications among Senior Officials of the MFAs of ASEAN Member States and China in Response to Maritime Emergencies in the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC); and (iv) Joint Statement on the Full and Effective Implementation of the DOC.

33. The Meeting welcomed the developments between ASEAN and China on the South China Sea since the last PMC, including the following:

- Made good progress to follow up on the decisions of the Leaders at the 19th

ASEAN-China Summit in September 2016;

- Successfully tested and operationalised the MFA-to-MFA Hotline;

- Defence officials exploring ways to operationalise the adopted Joint Statement on the Application of the Code of Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) in the SCS;

- Continued cooperation on such practical maritime cooperation, including on management and prevention of conflicts among parties as confidence building measures and to prevent miscalculations on the ground; and

- Finalised the draft COC framework at the 14th SOM-DOC in Guiyang.

34. The Foreign Ministers of ASEAN Member States and China adopted the framework of the Code of Conduct which provides a basis for consultations on the COC. In this context, as the next step, the Ministers tasked the Senior Officials to start the substantive consultations and negotiations on the COC.

35. The Meeting welcomed the entry into force of the Protocol to upgrade the ASEAN- China Free Trade Area (ACFTA), which will help to support both sides' twin goals to reach two-way trade and investment of US$ 1 trillion, and US$150 billion, respectively by 2020. The Meeting also noted with satisfaction the progress made in the implementation of the ASEAN-China Air Transport Agreement (AC-ATA). The Meeting looked forward to working towards full liberalisation of the AC-ATA and the full implementation of the upgraded ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement. The Meeting welcomed China's commitment to assist ASEAN in its economic integration process, particularly through the implementation of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration Work Plan III. The Meeting agreed to work on efforts to explore synergies between the ASEAN's Master Plan on Connectivity 2025 and China's Belt and Road initiative.

36. The Meeting welcomed the various activities held in ASEAN Member States and in China this year to celebrate the ASEAN-China Year of Tourism Cooperation to promote people-to-people exchanges, mutual trust and understanding. The Meeting noted the significant growth in tourism figures in two-way tourist arrivals. The Meeting also noted that the ASEAN-China Year of Tourism Cooperation coincides with the Visit ASEAN@50 campaign, which seeks to promote ASEAN as a single unified travel destination. These mutually reinforcing events will further promote tourism cooperation between the two sides. The Meeting underscored the important role and contribution of the ASEAN-China Centre in Beijing to promoting trade, investment, tourism, educational and cultural cooperation between ASEAN and China for mutual benefit. In this regard, the Meeting welcomed the signing of the revised Memorandum of Understanding on Establishing the ASEAN-China Centre.

37. The Meeting agreed to work on a joint statement on tourism cooperation to be issued at the 20th ASEAN-China Summit in November 2017, as well as to work on a Joint Statement on Anti-Corruption Cooperation. The Meeting also looked forward to the commemoration of the 15th Anniversary on the ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership in 2018, and agreed that both sides would issue an ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership Vision 2030 at the 21st ASEAN-China Summit next year. The Meeting welcomed the proposal to designate the Year 2018 as the ASEAN-China Year of Innovation.

EUROPEAN UNION

38. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with the European Union (EU) was co-chaired by

H.E. Don Pramudwinai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, and H.E. Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.

39. The Meeting noted the progress under the ASEAN-EU Plan of Action (2018-2022), which aims to bring cooperation between ASEAN and the EU to greater heights, including in the area of security and defence in order to reflect the mutual interest and potential for further cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges of shared concern over the next five years. The Meeting adopted the Joint Statement on the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-EU Dialogue Relations and the ASEAN-EU Statement on the Paris Agreement: Reaffirming Commitment to Cooperation to Address the Shared Challenge of Climate Change.

40. The Meeting also took note of the convening of the ASEAN-EU Joint Cooperation Committee (ASEAN-EU JCC) on 2 March 2017 in Jakarta, and the ASEAN-EU Senior Officials' Meeting (ASEAN-EU SOM) on 5-6 July 2017 in Bangkok. Both meetings discussed various areas of practical cooperation between ASEAN and the EU. The ASEAN-EU SOM discussed extensively the way forward to maintaining the momentum in ASEAN-EU cooperation.

41. The Meeting viewed the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-EU Dialogue Relations this year as an important opportunity to strengthen this partnership, to promote global peace and prosperity, and to explore new areas of cooperation based on shared interests and mutual respect. The Meeting welcomed the various commemorative activities to mark this milestone in the mutually-beneficial ASEAN-EU partnership, including the Special Session convened on 6 August 2017 in Manila, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the ASEAN-EU partnership and to promoting regionalism and multilateralism. On this occasion, the EU and Thailand presented the EU-ASEAN Blue Book 2017 and ASEAN-EU documents in braille, respectively. The Meeting took note of the invitation extended to H.E. Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, as Guest of the Chair at the East Asia Summit in November this year.

42. The Meeting noted the EU's engagement with and support for ASEAN Centrality in the evolving regional architecture and resolved to work towards a strategic partnership between ASEAN and the EU, in order to reflect and implement the decisions taken by the Ministers at the last two ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meetings. The Meeting stressed that a future ASEAN-EU Strategic Partnership must be based on substantive action with concrete results from both sides.

43. The Meeting welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN-EU Trade and Investment Programme for 2017-2018 at the 15th AEM-EU Trade Commissioner Consultation on 10 March 2017 in Manila, the Philippines. The Meeting expressed satisfaction with the strong trade and investment ties between ASEAN and the EU. In this regard, the Meeting welcomed the work being done by the Senior Economic Officials to develop a framework encompassing the parameters of a future ASEAN-EU Free Trade Agreement and shared a common view on the importance of enhancing economic cooperation in promoting MSMEs as well as innovation, science and technology.

44. The Meeting noted the progress made by both sides to strengthen cooperation In civil aviation and to enhance air connectivity between and beyond ASEAN and the EU through the conclusion of an ambitious, first of its kind, and forward-looking ASEAN-EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement (CATA) with 3rd, 4th and 5th freedom traffic rights, to support greater direct connectivity between both regions.

45. The Meeting welcomed the successful convening of the 21st ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting on 13-14 October 2016 in Bangkok, Thailand and the adoption of the Bangkok Declaration on Promoting an ASEAN-EU Global Partnership for Shared Strategic Goals, which is rooted in the shared commitment to foster rules-based approach, to promote security and prosperity for their citizens and to address global challenges effectively, advancing the interest of the peoples and citizens of ASEAN Member States and EU Member States, and in promoting global peace, progress and prosperity.

46. The Meeting expressed appreciation for the EU's continued support and contribution to the ASEAN regional integration process, to strengthening the capacity of the ASEAN Secretariat and for enhancing ASEAN connectivity through various development cooperation programmes across the three pillars of ASEAN such as the Regional EU-ASEAN Dialogue Instrument Human Rights Facility (READI HRF), the ASEAN Regional Integration Support from the EU (ARISE), the EU Support to Higher Education in ASEAN Region (EU-SHARE), the Sustainable Use of Peatland and Haze Mitigation in ASEAN (SUPA) and the Biodiversity Conservation and Management of Protected Areas in ASEAN (BCAMP). The Meeting took note of the assistance provided by EU-SHARE to the First ASEAN Student Mobility Forum in the Philippines on 14-15 June 2017.

47. The Meeting welcomed the planned ASEAN-EU Dialogue on Sustainable Development to be convened in Thailand in November this year.

INDIA

48. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with India was co-chaired by H.E. Phạm Bình Minh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam, and H.E. General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs.

49. The Meeting noted with satisfaction the progress in the implementation of the ASEAN-India Plan of Action (2016-2020) and welcomed the development of the list of priority areas for implementation during the period of 2016-2018. ASEAN and India continue to further deepen cooperation in all areas identified under the Plan of Action and through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the EAS, ARF and ADMM Plus.

50. The Meeting looked forward to the convening of the ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi on 25-26 January 2018, with the theme "Shared Values, Common Prosperity", which presents an important opportunity to reaffirm the shared commitment of both sides to further strengthen the ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership for Peace, Progress and Shared prosperity.

51. The Meeting agreed that this year's milestone 25th Anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations presents an opportunity to further advance cooperation through various projects across the three pillars of our engagement, namely in the political- security, economic and socio-cultural areas. The Meeting recognized the robust and mutually beneficial ASEAN-India partnership, which continues to be reinforced on the basis of shared historical links, geographical space, cultural ties and mutual trust. The Meeting welcomed the various commemorative activities in ASEAN Member States and India to mark this historic milestone in our strategic partnership. The Ministers took note of the major events that have already taken place including: (i) the exchange of congratulatory messages between the Leaders of India and ASEAN Chair, and between the External Affairs Minister of India and the Secretary-General of ASEAN; (ii) the Second International Conference on ASEAN-India Cultural and Civilizational Links; and (iii) ASEAN-India Expo Forum in Thailand. The Meeting also welcome the focus on the promotion of engagement among our youth, especially at the upcoming ASEAN-India Youth Summit on 14-19 August 2017, and also by organising music, sports and film festivals apart from the annual student exchange programmes.

52. Noting that the volume of ASEAN-India trade in 2016 was USD 56 billion, the Meeting stressed the need to fully tap the potentials offered by the effective implementation of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Area, the early operationalisation of the ASEAN-India Trade and Investment Centre, and the early finalisation of a modern, comprehensive, high-quality and mutually beneficial RCEP agreement.

53. The Meeting underscored the importance of ASEAN and India connectivity cooperation which would significantly contribute to the implementation of the strategic areas of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 (MPAC 2025). In this regard, the Meeting noted India's commitment to support ASEAN's connectivity goals, including the establishment of a US$ 1 billion line of credit for digital and infrastructure connectivity projects and the organisation of the ASEAN-India Connectivity Summit in October 2017 in New Delhi. The Meeting also welcomed the enhancement of people-to-people connectivity through exchange programs as part of commemorative activities. The Meeting encouraged India's engagement in follow through action on the Forum on MPAC 2025 Initiative Project Concepts held in July 2017 in the Philippines and in connectivity projects in the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP- EAGA). The Meeting noted the need to expedite the completion of the India-Myanmar- Thailand Trilateral Highway Project by 2018

54. The Meeting called for the early operationalisation of programmes under the ASEAN-India S&T Development Fund (AISTDF), namely ASEAN-India Collaborative R&D through projects, ASEAN-India Research & Training Fellowship for ASEAN professionals, and ASEAN-India Innovation Platform (AIIP).

55. The Meeting noted India's engagement with CLMV countries, both at the bilateral level as well as at the multilateral level. In this regard, the Meeting welcomed the operationalization of the US$ 77 million Project Development Fund to develop manufacturing hubs in CLMV countries, and the pilot deployment of Gigabyte Passive Optical Network (GPON) Technology.

56. The Meeting welcomed the successful organisation of the Delhi Dialogue IX with the theme "ASEAN-India Relations: Charting the Course for the Next 25 Years" held on 4-5 July 2017 in New Delhi.

57. The Meeting noted that Viet Nam will coordinate with India in organizing an ASEAN-India Workshop on the Blue Economy in September 2017 as part of the initiative under the EAS Statement on Enhancing Maritime Cooperation.

JAPAN

58. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session was co-chaired by H.E. Pehin Dato Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei Darussalam, and H.E. Taro Kono, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

59. The Meeting resolved to further deepen the strategic partnership between ASEAN and Japan in all areas of cooperation. In this regard, the Meeting adopted the revised Implementation Plan of the Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation which reaffirms the commitment of both sides to be Partners for Peace and Stability, Partners for Prosperity, Partners for Quality of Life and Heart-to-Heart Partners.

60. The Meeting recognized Japan's generous contributions over the years particularly through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) which has financed USD 657 million worth of projects and activities as of May 2017.

61. As strategic partners, ASEAN and Japan continue to further deepen cooperation through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the EAS, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM Plus.

62. The Meeting recognized the importance of collaborative efforts to address transnational crime, including illicit drug trafficking, cybercrime, piracy armed robbery at sea. ASEAN appreciated Japan's participation in the ARF including under the ARF Inter- Sessional Meeting (ISM) on Maritime Security which Japan co-chaired during the period of 2014-2017. The Meeting stressed the importance of establishing points of contact on preventing ICT crises and criminal and terrorist use of ICTs. In this regard, the Meeting welcomed Japan's support for countering terrorism and violent extremism by ASEAN Member States, including through the regular convening of the ASEAN-Japan Counter- Terrorism (AJCT) Dialogue and the capacity building projects implemented under this framework. The Meeting noted ongoing efforts on the development of the SOMTC-Japan Work Plan for Cooperation to Combat Terrorism and Transnational Crime (2018-2022).

63. The Meeting acknowledged Japan's standing as one of ASEAN's most important trading and investment partners. The Meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to double trade and investment flows by 2022 under the Renewed ASEAN-Japan 10-Year Strategic Economic Cooperation Roadmap (2016-2025) and the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Agreement which contribute to enhancing regional economic integration and prosperity. The Meeting expressed appreciation to the ASEAN-Japan Centre for its continued contribution to promote trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchanges and emphasized the need to further strengthen the Centre to address new challenges between ASEAN and Japan. The Meeting welcomed the ASEAN-Japan Innovation Network of which USD20 million has been allocated to promote innovation and the creation of new industries through collaboration and cooperation between ASEAN-Japan businesses. The Meeting also appreciated Japan's initiatives which support the engagement of MSMEs and the development of human resource capacity.

64. The Meeting expressed appreciation to Japan for its contributions in narrowing the development gap and to regional integration through the implementation of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI), the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and the Mekong-Japan cooperation. In this regard, the Meeting welcomed the successful convening of the First Meeting of the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC) with the Japanese Task Force on Connectivity on 25 July 2017 in Jakarta as well as Japan's engagement in the Forum on MPAC 2025 Initiatives and Project Concepts in the Philippines in July 2017.

65. The Meeting encouraged Japan to explore other sub-regional cooperation such as the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) and the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT). The Meeting welcomed Japan's "Partnership for Quality Infrastructure" and "Expanded Partnership for Quality Infrastructure" programs for the region in achieving quality growth. The Meeting encouraged greater collaboration with Japan in areas such as developing MSMEs; e- Commerce and human resource development and in implementing the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025 and IMT-GT Vision 2036. To accelerate ASEAN's community building and integration efforts for further integration, ASEAN and Japan agreed to start negotiations on the Agreement on Technical Cooperation between the Government of Japan and ASEAN.

66. On socio-cultural cooperation, the Meeting welcomed the progress of cooperation in healthcare and encouraged more efforts targeted towards collaboration in the areas of health services, pharmaceuticals and the prevention of non-communicable diseases, including through the ASEAN-Japan Health Initiative. The Meeting thanked Japan for supporting efforts to establish an integrated ICT system to enhance the operational capacity and resilience of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) in Jakarta. The Meeting looked forward to strengthened cooperation in implementing the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) and its Work Programme 2016- 2020, including the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN (DELSA) in support of the ASEAN Declaration on One ASEAN, One Response.

67. The Meeting emphasized the importance of promoting people-to-people contacts, including youth and students, collaborative programs of sports and cultural exchanges. The Meeting noted with satisfaction the progress of various programs including "JENESYS 2017"(Japan East-Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths), "WA- Project," "Sport for Tomorrow" and the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program. The Meeting expressed appreciation for Japan's continued support for the ASEAN-Japan TV Festival which helps spread positive messages of ASEAN-Japan partnership and looked forward to the second edition of the Festival in the Philippines in September 2017.

NEW ZEALAND

68. The ASEAN PMC 10+1 Session with New Zealand was co-chaired by H.E. Retno

L.P. Marsudi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, and the Honourable Gerry Brownlee, Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand.

69. Reflecting a high level of political interest between the two sides, the Meeting noted the substantial progress in the Implementation of the ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Statement for ASEAN-New Zealand Strategic Partnership 2016- 2020. The Meeting observed that for the full implementation of PoA, there was a need for greater participation from ASEAN sectoral bodies and closer cooperation between New Zealand with related ASEAN institutions such as the ASEAN Foundation and other think tanks in developing people-to-people projects. The Meeting took note that ASEAN and New Zealand continue to further deepen cooperation through the various ASEAN- led mechanisms such as the EAS, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM Plus.

70. Consistent with the goals of the strategic partnership, the Meeting underlined the need to promote two-way high-level official visits to raise the profile of ASEAN-New Zealand Dialogue Relations. The Meeting agreed on the imperative for ASEAN and New Zealand to work together as global players in responding to existing and emerging challenges and in maintaining peace, security, and stability for a resilient region.

71. The Meeting noted the progress in the implementation of the NZ Inc ASEAN Strategy, which aims to enable New Zealand to become better connected with ASEAN Member States, become better integrated with the ASEAN community, and boost investment, trade and economic returns from the region. The Meeting agreed that these goals, including those outlined in the "People Strategy" and the "Prosperity Strategy", as stated in the Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Statement for ASEAN-New Zealand Strategic Partnership (2016–2020), are meaningful for the long-term benefit of the strategic partnership.

72. The Meeting noted that ASEAN-New Zealand trade reached USD 6.9 billion in 2016. The Meeting agreed to maintain the momentum to achieve mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation through the AANZFTA mechanism and to deliver concrete, mutually-beneficial results. The Meeting noted the good progress made on the General Review of the AANZFTA, which commenced in 2017. The Meeting also acknowledged that the AANZFTA Economic Cooperation Support Programme (AECSP) has been supportive of regional economic integration efforts. The Meeting also agreed that the swift conclusion of negotiations for a high quality RCEP will benefit both ASEAN and New Zealand.

73. The Meeting took note of New Zealand's proposal to explore the possibility of an Air-Services Agreement with ASEAN in the future. The Meeting noted that almost all ASEAN Member States already have bilateral air services agreements with New Zealand, including on the development of satellite warehouses under the Disaster Emergency Logistic System for ASEAN (DELSA) Phase II to be established in Thailand and the Philippines.

74. The Meeting acknowledged New Zealand's support and assistance for the operationalization of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) and looked forward to the continuation of cooperation on disaster management and emergency response between ASEAN and New Zealand.

75. The Meeting appreciated various cooperation programs, including the New Zealand Prime Minister's Fellowship, the ASEAN Young Diplomat Study Tour, the Young Business Leaders' Initiatives (YLBI), the ASEAN-New Zealand Scholarships for ASEAN Students, and the English Language Training for Officials (ELTO) Programme which will further solidify the strong and enduring links between ASEAN and New Zealand. In this regard, the Meeting welcomed New Zealand's announcement of ASEAN@50 fellowships, which will focus on trade and economics.

76. The Meeting congratulated New Zealand on its successful two-year stint in 2015- 2016 as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council and its contribution to addressing some of the most pressing threats to international peace and security.

REPUBLIC OF KOREA (ROK)

77. The ASEAN PMC 10+1 Session with ROK was held on 6 August 2017. It was co- chaired by H.E. Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, and H.E. Kang Kyung-wha, Minister of Foreign Affairs of ROK.

78. The Meeting was pleased to note the positive progress in the implementation of the Plan of Action to Implement the Joint Declaration on ASEAN-ROK Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity (2016-2020). Both sides agreed to deepen ASEAN-ROK in all areas of cooperation, and supported continued discussions on security-related matters within the framework of the ASEAN-ROK Dialogue. The Meeting also noted that ASEAN and ROK continue to further deepen cooperation through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the EAS, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM Plus.

79. The Meeting welcomed ROK's commitment to further strengthen ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Relations as manifested by the sending of a Special Envoy to ASEAN by President Moon Jae-in upon his taking office in May 2017. The Meeting also expressed support for the ROK government's initiative to improve inter-Korean relations and to establish permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula.

80. The Meeting noted the progress made in economic cooperation between ASEAN and the ROK, and looked forward to the ratification of the Third Protocol to Amend the ASEAN-ROK Trade in Goods Agreement by other remaining ASEAN Member States. Both sides will continue to intensify efforts toward achieving the two-way trade target of USD 200 billion by 2020. The Meeting underscored the importance of according priority to trade and investment liberalization, including focusing on MSMEs and tourism.

81. The Meeting welcomed the launch of ASEAN-ROK Programme Management Team (AKPMT) in Jakarta in March 2017 as well as the development of the New Framework for the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund 2017-2020, which serve as platforms to broaden ASEAN-ROK development cooperation in all key areas. This Programme-based approach, which will begin next year, requires both ASEAN and the ROK to progressively come up with necessary project proposals and programmes targeting priority areas namely education, environment and culture sectors.

82. The Meeting noted the various commemorative activities in support of the 2017 ASEAN-ROK Cultural Exchange Year, which has contributed to facilitating closer cooperation and mutual understanding between ASEAN and the ROK, and enhancing people-to-people linkages. It was agreed that the list of activities for the Cultural Exchange Year will be submitted to the 19th ASEAN-ROK Summit in November 2017 for notation. The Meeting took note of the inauguration of the ASEAN Culture House in Busan on 1 September 2017. The ASEAN Culture House will serve as a platform to enhance understanding of the cultures and societies of ASEAN Member States and ROK. This ROK- initiated project reflects the strong resolve of the ROK in further deepening the strong bond of friendship and cooperation between ASEAN and ROK.

83. The Meeting underscored the important role the ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) has played over the past years and looked forward to reaping positive results from the AKC's promotion of trade, investment, tourism, cultural cooperation, and people-to-people contacts between ASEAN and the ROK. The Meeting looked forward to the holding of the 2017 International Conference on ASEAN-Korea Partnership in Seoul on 30 August 2017.

84. The Meeting also recognized the role of ASEAN-ROK Business Council (AKBC) in promoting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) cooperation through supporting innovation capacity, human resource development, sharing of best practices and expertise.

85. The Meeting noted that ongoing projects and activities being implemented under the ASEAN-ROK Forest Cooperation (AFoCo) Agreement will strengthen forest cooperation, particularly in preventing deforestation and forest degradation, supporting capacity building for improving forest resources assessments, and promoting sustainable forest management.

86. The Meeting welcomed the successful convening of the Third Meeting of the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC) with the ROK Task Force on Connectivity on 25 July 2017 in Jakarta as well as ROK's engagement in the Forum on MPAC 2025 Initiatives and Project Concepts in the Philippines in July 2017. To further intensify efforts to support air connectivity, the Meeting looked forward to convening the 2nd ASEAN-ROK Working Group on Regional Air Service Arrangements soon. The Meeting appreciated ROK's continued contribution to the Mekong-ROK Cooperation Fund (MRCF) since 2013 as an affirmation of the latter's commitment to helping member countries achieve balanced growth. In this regard, the Meeting looked forward to the adoption of the Mekong-ROK Plan of Action (2017-2020) at the Seventh Mekong-ROK Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Busan on 1 September 2017.

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

87. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with the Russian Federation was co-chaired by H.E. Saleumxay Kommasith, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, and H.E. Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

88. The Meeting recognised the achievements made over the past years of ASEAN- Russia dialogue partnership and cooperation across a wide range of areas which have strengthened and enhanced relations and contributed to regional peace, security, stability and prosperity.

89. The Meeting noted the Progress Report on the Implementation of the Comprehensive Plan of Action to Promote Cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Russian Federation (2016-2020). The Meeting also noted that ASEAN and Russia continue to further deepen cooperation in all areas identified under the Plan of Action and through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the EAS, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM Plus. The Meeting welcomed Russia's appointment of a dedicated Ambassador to ASEAN and the establishment of its dedicated diplomatic Mission to ASEAN, which demonstrate its desire to elevate Russia's engagement with ASEAN to greater heights.

90. The Meeting adopted the Implementation Roadmap of the ASEAN-Russia Eminent Persons Group (AREPG) Report, which will be operationalized in consultation with concerned ASEAN sectoral bodies. The Meeting further adopted the Concept Paper on the establishment of the Network of ASEAN-Russia Think Tanks (NARTT) as a track 1.5 mechanism to provide support towards the process of building an ASEAN-Russia strategic partnership.

91. The Meeting underlined the importance of enhancing cooperation to promote peace, security, stability and prosperity in the region. The Meeting emphasized that promoting cooperation to address regional security challenges, particularly terrorism and transnational crime, is of paramount importance, and adopted the Statement of ASEAN and Russia Ministers of Foreign Affairs on Joint Efforts to Combat International Terrorism. This statement reaffirms the commitment of both sides in the ASEAN-Russia Joint Declaration on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism signed in 2004, and provide a platform for enhanced cooperation through expanding the scope of practical cooperation between law enforcement and security agencies, exchange of information, sharing of experiences, organizing more capacity building programs, and strengthening cooperation with concrete initiatives. The Meeting also attached importance to enhancing cooperation between ASEAN and Russia in the area of maritime security, cybersecurity and nuclear non-proliferation.

92. The Meeting noted that ASEAN-Russia trade relations have grown by an average of 16.6 per cent over a 10-year period from 2006 to 2015 to reach USD 13.4 billion in 2015, placing Russia as ASEAN's eight largest trading partner. The Meeting observed that trade relations between ASEAN and Russia could be expanded, including through measures to increase the trade volume between both sides. To further expand trade relations, the Meeting noted that efforts are being undertaken by sectoral bodies of ASEAN and Russia to look into the feasibility study on an ASEAN-EAEU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

93. The Meeting welcomed the convening of the ASEAN-Russia Transport Ministers' Meeting in December 2016 in Moscow, during which the Ministers adopted the Moscow Joint Declaration of the ASEAN-Russia Transport Ministers' Meeting "Moving towards a Mutually Beneficial Transport Cooperation". The Meeting likewise welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN-Russia Energy Cooperation Work Plan (2016-2020), and noted proposals to explore cooperation areas in relation to alternative and renewable energy resources, energy infrastructure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy, as well as coal, oil and gas exploration. The Meeting welcomed Russia's intention to train ASEAN energy sector experts on efficient production, transmission and consumption of electricity, which will help enhance capacity building for ASEAN Member States and support energy sustainably in the region.

94. The Meeting expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the 7th ASEAN-Russia Tourism Consultations on 17 January 2017 in Singapore as well as Russia's expressed support in improving qualification of ASEAN tourist operators in Russian language. The Meeting encouraged more frequent consultations among tourism agencies to explore ways to increase tourist flows between the two regions.

95. The Meeting welcomed the recent developments in people-to-people connectivity through various cultural activities to implement the ASEAN-Russia Year of Culture 2016, particularly the convening of activities such as the 4th ASEAN-Russia Youth Summit on 25-26 October 2016 in Siem Reap, Cambodia and the ASEAN-Russia Youth Symphony Orchestra held in Vientiane in April 2017. These activities should continue in the future with a view to fostering a sense of togetherness, friendship and cooperation. The Meeting looked forward to the ASEAN-Russia Youth Summit in the Philippines later this year.

96. The Meeting noted the successful convening of the first ASEAN-Russia University Forum in September 2016 in Vladivostok, which was aimed at strengthening and diversifying ASEAN-Russia cooperation in the field of science and education, and creating preconditions for strengthening productive relations between the universities and research centers of ASEAN and Russia. The Meeting also noted that sectoral bodies of ASEAN and Russia are working on the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the ASEAN-Russia Working Group on Education (ARWGE).

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

97. The ASEAN PMC+1 Session with the United States of America was co-chaired by

H.E. Dato' Sri Anifah Hj. Aman, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, and the Honorable Rex W. Tillerson, Secretary of State of the United States of America.

98. The Meeting emphasized that ASEAN and the United States firmly uphold the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, the ASEAN Charter, and universal principles of international law. The Meeting reaffirmed that ASEAN and the United States adhere to the rules-based international order that upholds and protects the rights and privileges of all states. ASEAN and the United States reaffirmed the principles outlined in the 2016 Joint Statement of the U.S.-ASEAN Special Leaders' Summit.

99. The Meeting noted with satisfaction the progress made under the Plan of Action to Implement the ASEAN-U.S. Strategic Partnership (2016-2020) to further support the ASEAN Community in its three pillars, particularly within the five priority areas of economic integration, maritime cooperation, transnational challenges including sustainable development, emerging leaders, and women's opportunities. As strategic partners, ASEAN and the US continue to further deepen cooperation in all areas identified under the Plan of Action and through the various ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the EAS, ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ADMM Plus.

100. The Meeting recognized that the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-U.S. Dialogue Relations this year was an important opportunity to take steps and implement new initiatives to further solidify ASEAN-U.S. strategic partnership. The friendship between ASEAN and the U.S. was borne out of common desire for peace and prosperity. Over these four decades, the U.S. and ASEAN have built solid relations encompassing wide areas of cooperation across the three pillars and agreed to see these relations enhanced for common benefit.

101. The Meeting welcomed the visit of U.S. Vice President Mike Pence to the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta on 20 April 2017 where he met with the Secretary-General of ASEAN and Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN. This is a clear testament to the importance of the ASEAN-U.S. strategic partnership. The Meeting likewise welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump's commitment to attend the 5th ASEAN-

U.S. Summit and the 12th East Asia Summit in the Philippines as well as the 25th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Viet Nam in November.

102. The Meeting acknowledged the convening of the Special ASEAN-U.S. Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Washington D.C. on 4 May 2017 and ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting with the U.S. National Security Advisor as a demonstration of the commitment of both sides to frequent high-level engagements on some of the most pressing regional and international issues which are important to strengthen the ASEAN-U.S. strategic partnership.

103. The Meeting appreciated the United States' continued support for ASEAN integration and community building efforts through various development cooperation programmes, including the ASEAN Connectivity through Trade and Investment (ACTI) and the ASEAN-U.S. Partnership for Good Governance, Equitable and Sustainable Development and Security (ASEAN-U.S. Progress). ASEAN expressed appreciation for initiatives that enhance people-to-people connections, empower women and youth, and cultivate emerging leaders through, among others, the ASEAN Youth Volunteers Programme (AYVP), Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting Scholar Initiative, the ASEAN-U.S. Science and Technology Fellowship, the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI), the Women's Leadership Academy for YSEALI and the ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women. The Meeting also recognized the United States' support to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in ASEAN.

104. The Meeting noted that both ASEAN and U.S. economies have flourished. The total two-way trade between ASEAN and the United States in 2016 was USD 215.2 billion. The Meeting was pleased to note that the U.S. exports to ASEAN have supported more than 550,000 jobs in the U.S., and almost 42,000 U.S. companies export more than USD100 billion in goods and services to ASEAN every year. U.S. companies invest more in ASEAN than in any other area in Asia. ASEAN Member States' investments in the United States have increased by over 1000% since 2004, to over USD 26 billion in 2015. The Meeting looked forward to further enhancing economic cooperation and to the implementation of activities under the U.S.-ASEAN Connect ("Connect") initiative as a strategic framework for ASEAN-U.S. economic engagement focusing on four pillars – Business Connect, Energy Connect, Innovation Connect, and Policy Connect. ASEAN valued the U.S.' continued support in the implementation of the ASEAN Single Window (ASW) enabling platform to stimulate the free flow of goods in the single market and production base of the ASEAN Economic Community.

105. The Meeting noted with satisfaction the adoption of the Terms of Reference for ASEAN-U.S. Aviation Cooperation and looked forward to both sides further strengthening cooperation on civil aviation covering aviation safety, efficiency, harmonisation, security, as well as economic regulation.

106. In the area of socio-cultural cooperation, the Meeting noted the commitment of both sides to strengthen cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, fisheries and marine conservation, sustainable development, education, young leadership and people-to-people exchanges in the region.

Regional and International Issues

107. The Meetings warmly welcomed the improving cooperation between ASEAN and China with respect to the South China Sea. The Meetings were encouraged by the conclusion and adoption of the framework of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, which will facilitate the work for the conclusion of an effective COC on a mutually-agreed timeline. The Meetings underscored the importance of the full and effective implementation of the DOC in its entirety.

108. The Meetings took note of the successful testing of the MFA-to-MFA hotline to manage maritime emergencies in the South China Sea. The Meetings looked forward to the operationalisation of the joint statement on the observance of the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) in the South China Sea as part of practical measures that could reduce tensions, and the risks of accidents, misunderstandings and calculation.

109. The Meetings took note of some concerns expressed by some Ministers on activities in the area that have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions and may undermine peace, security and stability in the region. The Meetings reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, stability, safety and freedom of navigation in and over-flight above the South China Sea.

110. The Meetings recognized the benefits that would be gained from having the South China Sea as a sea of peace, stability and prosperity.

111. The Meetings affirmed that peace and security in the region is paramount. The Meetings reaffirmed the need to enhance mutual trust and confidence, exercise self- restraint in the conduct of activities and avoid actions that may further complicate the situation, and pursue peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

112. The Meetings welcomed the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Statement on the Developments in the Korean Peninsula issued on 5 August 2017. The Meetings reiterated grave concerns over the escalation of tensions in the Korean Peninsula including the most recent testing by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) on 4 and 28 July 2017 in addition to its previous nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches.

113. Noting that these developments seriously threaten peace and stability in the entire region and beyond, the Meetings strongly urged the DPRK to fully and immediately comply with its obligations arising from all the relevant U.N. Security Council Resolutions.

114. The Meetings reiterated support for the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner and called for the exercise of self-restraint and the resumption of dialogue in order to de-escalate and create conditions conducive to peace and stability. Some of the Ministers expressed concern over the importance of addressing humanitarian concerns, including the abductions issue. The Meetings expressed support for initiatives to improve inter-Korean relations towards establishing permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula, including the latest initiative of the Republic of Korea proposed on 6 July 2017 in Berlin.

115. The Meetings recognized that radicalisation and violent extremism are common scourges of mankind. They reaffirmed their commitment to combat this plague through effective implementation of measures and counter-measures at the national, regional, and sub-regional levels under the ASEAN Convention on Counter-Terrorism (ACCT), the

U.N. Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, and the U.N. Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism.

116. The Meetings likewise reaffirmed the importance and effectiveness of the whole- of-nation approach as opposed to a purely military option in combating the problem. They recognised that preventive education, involvement of women and youth and civil society, promotion of peace, tolerance, respect for diversity and moderation as a counter- narrative, and more effective use and more effective measures in preventing the misuse of internet, social media and cyber space for terrorist activities of social media in countering terrorist messages online would complement dialogue cooperation in this regard.

117. The Meetings welcomed the convening of the Trilateral Meeting on Security among the Foreign Ministers of the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia on 22 June 2017 in Manila and looked forward to the follow-up meeting to discuss the proposed plan of action later this year in Indonesia.

118. The Meetings welcomed the commencement of the Sub-Regional Ministerial Meeting on Foreign Terrorist Fighters and Cross-Border Terrorism on 29 July 2017 in Manado, Indonesia.