Kuala lumpur: The 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits are poised for a fresh wave of dynamism as newly appointed leaders and special guests converge, signaling a pivotal moment in the bloc’s evolving partnerships. Japan, Thailand, and Canada will be represented by their new prime ministers, while South Africa and Brazil participate as Guests of the Chair, showcasing ASEAN’s expanding engagement beyond the Asia-Pacific region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Associate Professor Dr. Roy Anthony Rogers from Universiti Malaya highlighted that the new leaders are expected to bring fresh perspectives without drastic policy shifts towards ASEAN. Dr. Rogers pointed out that while the leaders are likely to adhere to the policies established by their predecessors, any modifications would be gradual and not immediate.
Dr. Rogers further elaborated that the participation of South Africa and Brazil under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship represents a strategic initiative to expand engagement with other groupings like the Gulf Cooperation Council and BRICS. National Council of Professors Fellow Prof Dr. Azmi Hassan emphasized Thailand’s new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s pro-business and pragmatic stance, which could fortify the country’s economy and strengthen ties with the United States.
Prof Dr. Azmi also noted that Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to pursue a more assertive foreign policy, akin to the late Shinzo Abe’s approach. Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, is anticipated to bolster Japan-US ties and potentially negotiate a new trade deal with Washington to improve tariffs on Japanese exports.
Dr. Rahul Mishra from Jawaharlal Nehru University highlighted that the new leaders are strong figures poised to reorient their countries’ foreign and security policies, playing significant roles in supporting ASEAN’s internal cohesion. The emphasis on Japan’s increased security presence in the Indo-Pacific under Takaichi’s leadership, and Thailand’s potential role in addressing the Myanmar crisis, were underscored.
A senior research fellow from Thammasat University remarked on Anutin’s business-friendly approach and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as valuable contributions to ASEAN’s integration efforts. The outreach efforts align with the growing momentum in BRICS solidarity, with these new faces expected to invigorate ASEAN’s intra- and inter-regional cooperation.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s official visit to Malaysia and Brazilian President Luiz In¡cio Lula da Silva’s attendance at the summit as Guest of the Chair further reflect ASEAN’s commitment to expanding its international partnerships. Brazil, which became an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner in 2022, remains its sole partner from Latin America.