The signing of the ASEAN Charter in 2008, marking the founding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, was a pivotal moment in shaping regional cooperation. As ASEAN approaches its 10th anniversary as a formal community, this milestone serves as a testament to nearly six decades of unwavering collective commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
On August 8, 2025, Cambodia commemorated the 58th anniversary of ASEAN's founding, which also marks the 10th anniversary of the formal establishment of the ASEAN Community. As Prime Minister, Hun Sen expressed his gratitude to Malaysia, which hosted a successful Special Meeting on July 28, resulting in a ceasefire agreement with Thailand.
"Today, we proudly commemorate the 58th anniversary of the founding of ASEAN, which also marks the 10th anniversary of the formal establishment of the ASEAN Community," said H.E. Eat Sophea, Permanent Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
While celebrating past achievements, Cambodia looks ahead with purpose. This year's anniversary coincides with the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which outlines a bold and forward-looking trajectory for ASEAN ~—a community that is adaptive, cohesive, resilient, dynamic, and people-centred.
Cambodia has played an active role in shaping this vision. The country reaffirms its shared commitment to an ASEAN-centred, open, inclusive, transparent, and rules-based regional architecture grounded in international law and strengthened through mutually beneficial cooperation with external partners via ASEAN-led mechanisms.
Key stakeholders and their motivations include:
Cambodia
Malaysia
United States
People's Republic of China
Thailand
Recent Developments
In the past six months, ASEAN has seen significant developments in regional integration. The ASEAN-United States Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, launched during Cambodia's 2022 Chairmanship, continues to strengthen strategic engagement under the partnership.
A recent survey by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) found that 71% of ASEAN countries believe that regional economic integration will increase their competitiveness and attract more foreign investment. However, the survey also noted that infrastructure constraints remain a significant barrier to regional trade and investment.
Expert Insights
"The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 is a historic moment in ASEAN's community-building journey," said Dr. Tanet Nuanman, Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand.
"Asean must adapt to new global realities while maintaining its core values and principles," added Mr. Koichi Haraguchi, Senior Fellow at the Japan Institute for International Affairs.
Future Outlook
Short-term outcomes (next 6 months):
ASEAN countries will continue to strengthen regional economic integration through infrastructure development and trade liberalization.
The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 will guide the community's efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
Long-term outcomes (5-10 years):
ASEAN could become a major player in regional and global affairs, driving economic growth, promoting peace and security, and advancing sustainable development.
The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 will serve as a guiding framework for ASEAN's community-building efforts.
Possible Scenarios
Best Case Scenario:
ASEAN countries continue to strengthen regional economic integration through infrastructure development and trade liberalization.
The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 guides the community's efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
Worst-Case Scenario:
ASEAN countries fail to strengthen regional economic integration, leading to a decline in regional trade and investment.
The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 is met with resistance from some member states, hindering the community's ability to promote peace, stability, and prosperity.
Most Likely Scenario:
ASEAN countries continue to make progress in strengthening regional economic integration through infrastructure development and trade liberalization.
The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 serves as a guiding framework for ASEAN's community-building efforts, promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.