Pasay city: The foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) conveyed 'serious concern' over the resumption of hostilities between Iran and the United States in the Middle East.
According to Philippines News Agency, Southeast Asia's top diplomats present at the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting plenary session in Pasay City on Tuesday called on both Iran and the US to exercise utmost self-restraint and avoid any acts that may further aggravate the situation. In a joint statement, they emphasized the urgency of the matter, highlighting that this was the only geopolitical issue addressed in their discussions.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro noted the pressing nature of the situation during a post-meeting discussion with the press, stating the necessity of promptly releasing the joint statement. The ministers warned that the developments could severely undermine ongoing efforts by key mediators and diminish the prospects for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
The joint statement underscored the importance of maintaining regional peace, stability, and prosperity, upholding international law, and promoting genuine dialogue and diplomacy in addressing conflicts and tensions. It called for a complete and immediate cessation of hostilities across all fronts in the Middle East.
The ministers also emphasized the need to maintain maritime safety and security in the Strait of Hormuz and uphold freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law. They expressed deep concern over any discriminatory or unilateral measures that might impede or obstruct vessels transiting through the passage.
The statement was issued a day ahead of the foreign ministers' meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the upcoming ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the US on July 22. This comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump's declaration that the temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran is over. The United Nations has since urged all parties to intensify diplomatic efforts towards a peaceful and durable settlement, including the full restoration of international navigational rights and freedoms in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
