ASEAN

During Songkran, one meaningful tradition in many communities across Thailand is the building of sand pagodas, known as Chedi Sai. People believe that it symbolises returning sand taken from temple grounds on visitor’s shoes, and cleaning to restart, which would bring good fortune, make merit for ancestors and show respect to the temple. Usually, people gather at temple grounds to shape the pagodas from sand and decorate them with flowers, colorful flags, and incense.

ASEAN works closely with partner countries through structured ASEAN-led cooperation frameworks. Dialogue Partners are countries and organisations that engage ASEAN through regular dialogue and practical cooperation across political and security affairs, economic integration, and socio-cultural development. Through these partnerships, ASEAN and its partners strengthen mutual trust and understanding, align priorities, and work together to address regional and global challenges, while upholding ASEAN Centrality. Some of Dialogue Partners have elevated their cooperation by establishing Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN. #ASEANDialoguePartnersCooperation

During Lao New Year, one girl stands out as the Nang Sangkhan, the New Year Princess. She is chosen to represent tradition, beauty, and the spirit of the festival, and is paraded through town in a grand procession. Colorful floats, traditional dances, and lively music accompany her journey, creating a celebration that unites families, friends, and communities. The pageant honors the seven daughters of King Kabinlaphom, each representing a day of the week, and serves as a reminder of Lao’ rich mythology and enduring cultural values. Beyond the spectacle, the Nang Sangkhan embodies filial piety, respect for ancestors, and harmony within the community, reflecting the true meaning of renewal and joy during the New Year.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community, H.E. Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, received a courtesy call from the Ambassador of Romania to ASEAN, H.E. Dan-Adrian Bălănescu, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. They exchanged views on ways to forge closer relations between ASEAN and Romania.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community, Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, today welcomed a delegation from the United States National War College, led by the United States Mission to ASEAN Chargé d’Affaires Joy M. Sakurai. The Meeting exchanged views on regional developments, ASEAN priorities and key challenges ahead.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community, Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, today met with Ambassador of Iran to ASEAN, Mohammad Boroujerdi, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on ways to further strengthen ASEAN-Iran relations. They also discussed the latest regional developments and shared perspectives on issues of common concern, reaffirming the importance of dialogue and cooperation in promoting regional peace and stability.

The ASEAN Foreign Ministers convened a second Special Meeting on 13 April 2026, via videoconference, to exchange views on the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East and to address its various implications for ASEAN, including on energy, food security, and safety of ASEAN nationals. The Meeting also sought to follow up on the outcomes of their Special Meeting on 13 March 2026, as well as to discuss the possible ways forward, ahead of the 48th ASEAN Summit in May 2026. The Meeting welcomed the announcement on 8 April 2026 of a temporary ceasefire between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran and expressed hope for its full and effective implementation, and urged both parties to continue down the path of diplomacy and dialogue and redouble efforts in negotiations that will lead to the permanent end of the conflict and lasting peace and stability in the region. In this regard, the Meeting noted that the ceasefire could help ease disruption to maritime and air transport routes and reduce related costs and delays, especially for merchant and non-combatant vessels. Read the full ASEAN Chair's Statement: bit.ly/ACS_ME

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Economic Community Satvinder Singh, on 10 April 2026, led the ASEAN Secretariat’s delegation at the 13th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting (AFMGM) via videoconference. The Meeting was co-chaired by H.E. Frederick D. Go, Secretary of Finance of the Republic of the Philippines and H.E. Eli M. Remolona, Jr., Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The Meeting discussed global and regional economic outlook, with a particular focus on measures to mitigate the impact of the current global economic and geopolitical developments to ASEAN, as well as exchanged views on initiatives under the ASEAN Finance and Central Bank tracks, and provided guidance on recommended policy measures to advance regional financial integration towards a sustainable and digital future.

The people of Lao PDR celebrate Pi Mai Lao, a joyful festival of renewal, togetherness, and gratitude. Over several days, communities have come alive with water blessings, traditional dances, and cultural performances. Families honor elders, offer alms to monks, and share festive foods, bringing everyone closer and spreading happiness throughout towns and villages. Wishing everyone a year filled with peace, joy, and prosperity!

We extend our heartfelt wishes to our Cambodian friends as they celebrate the joyous festival of the Khmer New Year, starting from today for the next 3 days. May this special occasion be filled with blessings, harmony, peace, prosperity, and unity for all. Let the vibrant traditions and cultural heritage of Cambodia shine brightly as we celebrate together as one ASEAN family. Wishing all Cambodians a joyful and prosperous Khmer New Year! 🌺🌏 #ASEANCulture

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today participated in the Second Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) on the Situation in the Middle East, which was held via videoconference and chaired by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, following the convening of the first Special AMM in March 2026. The Meeting discussed the evolving situation in the Middle East and its current and potential implications for the region and beyond, particularly on energy and food security. The Ministers also underscored the need to mitigate the impact of the conflict and reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to working in unity and to maintaining stability and resilience for the benefit of its peoples.

We, the Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), welcome the two-week ceasefire between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, announced on 8 April 2026. We reaffirm the importance of maintaining maritime safety and security, and upholding freedom of navigation in and overflight above straits used for international navigation, in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, and the relevant standards and recommended practices by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). In this regard, we call for the restoration of the safe, unimpeded, and continuous transit passage of vessels and aircraft in the Strait of Hormuz in line with the 1982 UNCLOS, as well as for all parties to ensure the safety of seafarers and ships in accordance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Read more: bit.ly/AFMS-DME

On this day, Thai people celebrate Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year and a time of renewal, respect, family reunions, and merit-making. During this festive period, families gather to share moments and do various activities together; for example, celebrating and paying respect to elders, visiting temples, making merit, and pouring water on Buddha images. Streets and neighborhoods also come alive with joyful water-splashing, cultural performances, and the sharing of traditional foods, bringing families and friends closer together. Happy Songkran!

As the summer heat intensifies across Myanmar, a sweet, drifting fragrance from the rows of Padauk trees begins to soothe the soul. This golden bloom is the herald of “Thingyan”—the announcement that the New Year is near. The word “Thingyan” is derived from the Sanskrit word Sankranta, meaning “Transition.” Just as the sun moves from Aries to Taurus, our lives transition from the old year into the new. The festival originates from a celestial wager between Thagyamin (King of Devas) and Arsi Brahma. To protect the world from destruction, the Brahma’s severed head is passed between seven goddesses each year; this handover marks the “Transition” we celebrate today. In Myanmar history, Thingyan has been a cornerstone of culture since the Bagan Era (AD 9th to 13th). Chronicles tell of King Narathihapate playfully splashing Queen Saw Lon with water, and later, during the Konbaung Dynasty, King Mindon hosted grand water festivals within the palace walls. The Myanmar Water Festival is not just a single event, but a spiritual journey through four distinct days: Akyo, Akya, Akat, and Atat. Each carries a unique tradition rooted in renewal and merit: - Thingyan Akyo (13 April): The day to prepare for and welcome the arrival of Thagyamin. Households set up the Atar Oh (Water Pot), decorated with seven types of auspicious leaves (such as Eugenia/Thabyay) to invite blessings into the home. - Thingyan Akya (14 April): The official descent of the King of Devas to Earth. The water splashing begins, symbolizing the washing away of the past year’s misfortunes. - Thingyan Akat (15 April): The “staying” days. Celebrations reach their peak with vibrant music and water throwing. (In some years, there are two Akat days). - Thingyan Atat (16 April): The final day and the “ascent” of the King of Devas. It is the last chance to wash away the “dirt” of the old year before the New Year arrives the following morning. Thingyan is a time for forgiveness and renewal. It is a reminder to wash away old grudges and step into the New Year with a pure heart and a fresh start.

As we prepare to celebrate the Thingyan Festival tomorrow, there is a special festive treat closely associated with the celebrations, Mont Lone Yae Paw. Mont Lone Yae Paw, which is inseparable from Myanmar’s traditional Atar Thingyan Festival, gets its name from its unique cooking method. The name refers to how the hand-rolled rice balls rise to the surface of the boiling water once they are fully cooked. To make a delicious Mont Lone Yae Paw, glutinous rice flour and rice flour are mixed in the right proportions, with sweet pieces of Myanmar palm sugar (jaggery) hidden inside. More than just a simple dessert, Mont Lone Yae Paw represents deep cultural and social values. It is rarely made alone; instead, families and friends gather to make them together, strengthening their bonds and symbolizing unity. Furthermore, it is a primary treat served in “Satuditha” the lovely Myanmar tradition of offering free food to everyone. Therefore, Mont Lone Yae Paw is more than just food; it is a symbol that captures the true essence of Myanmar’s traditional culture during the joyful New Year.

The 28th ASEAN India Senior Officials’ Meeting, held on 9 April 2026 in Manila reviewed ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and reaffirmed commitment to build on initiatives to take the relations forward. The Senior Officials also exchanged views on regional and international developments of common interest and concern, underscoring the importance of continued dialogue and collective efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. Photo credit: Jheggy Gonzales

On 8 April 2026, H.E. Elisa Maria da Silva presented her Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, formally commencing her tenure as the Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to ASEAN.   The Presentation of the Letter of Credence was followed by a courtesy call, during which Secretary-General Dr. Kao congratulated Ambassador Da Silva on her appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to contribute meaningfully to the ASEAN Community-building and regional integration efforts. He emphasised that the Ambassador’s extensive diplomatic experience would be an invaluable asset to the work of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN (CPR).   Secretary-General Dr. Kao also commended Timor-Leste for its steadfast commitment and meaningful contributions to ASEAN, following its admission as the eleventh Member State of ASEAN at the 47th ASEAN Summit, held in October 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   During the meeting, Secretary-General Dr. Kao said, “Timor-Leste can play a meaningful role in advancing the implementation of the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future, particularly in contributing to regional integration and fostering a more cohesive ASEAN Community.”   “As ASEAN’s newest Member State, Timor-Leste reaffirms its strong commitment to ASEAN unity, a people-centred Community, and meaningful contributions to regional peace and sustainable development. We remain dedicated to working closely with all Member States and Partners," said Ambassador Da Silva.   Secretary-General Dr. Kao reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to support Ambassador Da Silva and the Permanent Mission of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to ASEAN in Jakarta, emphasising the importance of continued collaboration between the CPR and the ASEAN Secretariat in advancing ASEAN’s goals and objectives, as well as supporting Timor-Leste’s full and effective integration into ASEAN.

The 13th AFMGM was convened under the co-chairmanship of H.E. Frederick D. Go, Secretary of the Department of Finance of the Philippines, and H.E. Eli M. Remolona, Jr., Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. We, the ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, convened to discuss regional and global developments, assess the progress of finance and central bank cooperation initiatives, and reaffirm the importance of strengthening ASEAN’s integration and resilience through strengthening policy coordination, enhancing financial cooperation, advancing inclusive and sustainable growth, deepening financial safety nets, accelerating digital transformation, and managing climate-related risks. Read the Joint Statement: bit.ly/JS_13AFMGM