ASEAN

Commentary argues the Philippines' electric vehicle strategy risks falling behind if it ignores regional ASEAN dynamics. Neighbouring Southeast Asian economies are building EV supply chains, attracting manufacturing investment and setting market standards, and the country's push could be undermined without coordination on trade, components and policy. The piece urges Manila to treat the regional bloc as central rather than peripheral to its EV plans.

During New York Climate Week, attention turned to Indonesia's solar potential in light of rapid solar growth across ASEAN countries and Pakistan's unexpected boom in rooftop and off-grid solar adoption. Observers argue Indonesia can draw on these regional experiences to accelerate its own clean energy transition, reduce reliance on coal, and meet its renewable energy targets faster.

Indonesia's Minister for Foreign Affairs spoke at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, joining the annual general debate in New York. The address comes as world leaders take the stage to outline their countries' positions on international security, development and multilateral cooperation. Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest nation and a founding member of ASEAN, traditionally uses the forum to press for reform of global governance and stronger representation of developing countries.

The European Union and the Philippines have reached a trade breakthrough, and attention is now turning to whether Brussels could pursue a broader agreement with the whole Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Analysts say the Philippine deal could serve as a stepping stone, though an Asean-wide pact would face far greater complexity given the bloc's differing economies and political systems.