Australia must not take regional stability for granted

The Albanese government has warned of ‘uncertain times’ where ‘powerful forces are reshaping our shared region’ and pledged not to take stability in Southeast Asia for granted.

Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Tim Watts. Picture: AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

The federal government has warned of “uncertain times” where “powerful forces are reshaping our shared region” as it sets the agenda ahead of next week’s ASEAN-Australia summit, including an ambition to scale-up the trade and investment relationship.

In a speech at Melbourne University to launch a new report on 50 years of partnership between Australia and ASEAN, Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister Tim Watts said Australia could not take the stability and prosperity of Southeast Asia for granted.

“The summit is a powerful platform to discuss our shared ambition for the sort of region we all want to see – a stable, peaceful and prosperous region with ASEAN at its centre,” he said.

“We cannot take it as a given that our region will remain this way. Indeed ... powerful forces are reshaping our shared region.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said building links with Southeast Asian countries was a priority for his government.

“I look forward to welcoming my counterparts to Australia to discuss the shared challenges facing our region, opportunities to enhance our prosperity and how we can build on our strong relationships,” he said. The summit, in Melbourne from Monday to Wednesday, will be underpinned by four key themes: boosting economic engagement, the clean energy transition, increasing maritime co-operation and supporting emerging leaders.