In a significant development, H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, witnessed the signing of the “Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future” by ASEAN Leaders on May 26, 2025. This milestone document outlines directions for advancing the ASEAN Community in the next 20 years, with a focus on realising a “Resilient, Innovative, Dynamic, and People-centred ASEAN.”
The signing was held on the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The declaration is a comprehensive plan that covers four Strategic Plans, aligned with the three ASEAN Community Pillars: Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural. Additionally, it emphasizes ASEAN Connectivity as a key component.
The vision for ASEAN 2045 aims to strengthen regional cooperation and address pressing global challenges. The declaration highlights the need for collective action on issues such as climate change, pandemics, and economic inequality. It also underscores the importance of investing in human capital, innovation, and digitalisation to drive sustainable growth.
Thailand’s commitment to ASEAN 2045 is a testament to its leadership role in regional affairs. As one of the founding members of ASEAN, Thailand has long been instrumental in shaping the organisation’s agenda. This declaration marks an important step towards a more resilient, innovative, and people-centred ASEAN, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and prosperity.
The Kuala Lumpur Declaration is set to serve as a guiding framework for ASEAN member states to work together towards a shared future. It is expected to inform policy decisions, shape regional agendas, and drive cooperation on key issues. As the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 takes shape, Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue, promoting people-to-people exchanges, and fostering regional partnerships.
With the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, Thailand solidifies its position as a champion of regional cooperation and a driving force for ASEAN’s future growth. As the organisation embarks on this new chapter, the country looks forward to working with its neighbours to build a more connected, prosperous, and peaceful region.
The declaration is a significant milestone in the realisation of ASEAN 2045, and Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs’ attendance underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing global challenges.
A Key Step Forward for ASEAN
The Kuala Lumpur Declaration represents a major breakthrough in ASEAN’s efforts to establish a cohesive vision for its future. By committing to a shared set of objectives and strategies, member states can harness their collective strength to drive growth, address pressing issues, and promote regional stability.
As the organisation moves forward, it is essential that all member states work together to implement the declaration’s provisions. This will require sustained efforts from governments, civil society, and the private sector to build a more resilient, innovative, and people-centred ASEAN.
The declaration’s emphasis on human capital development, innovation, and digitalisation offers significant opportunities for regional growth and cooperation. By investing in these areas, ASEAN member states can drive sustainable economic development, enhance regional connectivity, and address pressing global challenges.
The Kuala Lumpur Declaration is a testament to the enduring spirit of cooperation and collaboration that has characterised ASEAN’s history.
A New Era for Regional Cooperation
The signing of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration marks an exciting new chapter in ASEAN’s journey towards a shared future. As the organisation embarks on this path, it is clear that Thailand will continue to play a vital role in facilitating dialogue, promoting people-to-people exchanges, and fostering regional partnerships.
With its rich history, cultural diversity, and strategic location, Thailand has long been an integral part of ASEAN’s fabric. By embracing the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, the country cements its position as a champion of regional cooperation and a driving force for ASEAN’s future growth.
As the organisation moves forward, it is essential that all member states work together to implement the declaration’s provisions and build on the momentum created by this milestone document. With collective effort, determination, and a shared vision, ASEAN can create a more connected, prosperous, and peaceful region for all its citizens.
The Kuala Lumpur Declaration offers a promising roadmap for ASEAN’s future growth and development.