The 2024 ASEAN Summit is set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, uniting leaders from Southeast Asia and key global players to tackle urgent regional and global challenges. As ASEAN navigates economic shifts, security threats, and climate concerns, this summit will shape policies affecting over 650 million people. Below is a detailed guide on attendees, agenda highlights, and what’s at stake.
Confirmed Attendees at the ASEAN Summit 2024
Malaysia hosts leaders from all 10 ASEAN member states, including:
1. Brunei: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah
2. Cambodia: PM Hun Manet
3. Indonesia: President Joko Widodo
4. Laos: PM Sonexay Siphandone
5. Myanmar: Representative (amid political crisis)
6. Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
7. Singapore: PM Lawrence Wong
8. Thailand: PM Srettha Thavisin
9. Vietnam: PM Pham Minh Chinh
Dialogue partners like the U.S. (Vice President Kamala Harris), China (Premier Li Qiang), Japan, India, and the EU will join discussions, spotlighting U.S.-China dynamics and trade partnerships.
Top 5 Agenda Items to Watch
1. Economic Growth and Trade Agreements
- Advancements in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
- Digital economy partnerships to streamline cross-border transactions.
- Funding for infrastructure like the ASEAN Power Grid.
2. South China Sea Dispute
- Debates over a binding Code of Conduct (COC) with China.
- Regional security and freedom of navigation concerns.
3. Myanmar’s Political Crisis
- Stalled Five-Point Consensus and calls for democratic reforms.
- Humanitarian aid for Rohingya refugees and conflict zones.
4. Climate Action and Energy Shifts
- Renewable energy investments and ASEAN’s net-zero roadmap.
- Climate resilience projects for flood-prone regions.
5. Cybersecurity and Tech Governance
- Unified policies against cyber threats.
- Ethical AI use and data privacy measures.
Key Takeaways and Potential Outcomes
- Geopolitical Balancing: Will ASEAN stay neutral in U.S.-China tensions?
- Regional Unity: Can members agree on Myanmar and maritime disputes?
- Economic Wins: New trade pacts or green energy deals may emerge.
The summit’s decisions will ripple across global trade, security, and climate efforts. Follow live updates for breaking developments.
