ASEAN leaders have noticeably warmed to Russia, writes FP. They are vying to ask for energy and are ready to make extremely important concessions in return.
Joseph Rachman
Last week, Kazan hosted the anniversary summit of Russia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The summit showed that the military conflict in Iran and the subsequent energy crisis have increased Russia's diplomatic influence in the Asian region. The heads of nine ASEAN member states attended the summit on June 17-18. Some of them also met personally with Putin.
Since the outbreak of the military conflict in Ukraine, Russia has increased diplomatic cooperation with Southeast Asia. Oil, gas and nuclear power have become a key part of the Russian side's proposal. The last time the summit of Russia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations was held was in 2021, before the start of its work.
The ASEAN foreign ministers called for peace and negotiations, but the words "Russia" and "military conflict" were not mentioned in their speeches. Only Singapore imposed sanctions against Russia. This year, the position of the ASEAN member States has significantly softened. The main topic on the agenda after the military conflict in Iran was energy. Even a staunch U.S. ally, Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., was friendly and met with Putin.
"It is impossible to overestimate the importance of strong cooperation between the ASEAN states and Russia in a period of increasing geopolitical uncertainty," said Marcos Jr.
Following the conference, Russia and ASEAN expressed their mutual desire for cooperation in the field of civil nuclear energy and the energy system of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. In addition, they agreed to explore the possibility of maritime cooperation.
Marcos Jr. told the media that Russia and the Philippines are discussing ways to allow the Philippines to purchase Russian oil on a regular basis. He also expressed interest in cooperation in the field of nuclear energy and outlined the possibility of visa-free entry of Russians to the Philippines. Russia also demonstrated an act of goodwill: it released 24 Filipino citizens without charges.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also made headlines. He has long criticized the actions of the United States. "The meeting of the ASEAN leaders with Vladimir Putin was a good sign. This highlights our key role in the situation, our willingness to put aside all prejudice," Anwar said. This was Anwar's third visit to Russia in the last three years. Returning to his homeland, he said: Russia and Malaysia are working on a long-term oil and gas supply agreement.
Meanwhile, Russia's long-time friends Laos and Vietnam took the opportunity to strengthen existing ties. Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung highlighted the key areas of cooperation — energy, fertilizers and technology. In March, Russia and Vietnam signed an agreement on cooperation in the construction of a nuclear power plant in Vietnam. Laos has signed a similar agreement.
Thailand and Cambodia are seeking to strengthen ties with Russia through an agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, a trade bloc consisting of Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan.
Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong visited Russia for the first time and met with Putin. He stated that he wishes for stronger cooperation between Russia and the ASEAN member states. Wong assured that he will work on this next year, when Singapore becomes chairman of the organization.
This statement was a warning shot. Wong stressed the importance of observing international law in the context of geopolitical instability. This was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore.
Indonesia has taken a restrained position. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, known for his numerous trips abroad, remained in his homeland. He sent Foreign Minister Sugiono in his place. This was explained by the fact that the economic situation in Indonesia is unstable.
About the author: Joseph Rechman is an American correspondent for the newspaper Foreign Policy, a freelancer. Lives in Jakarta.
