ASEAN maritime dialogue focuses on regional rules-based order

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is holding a maritime security dialogue in Manila from May 21 to 23, 2025, to establish a rules-based order in the region.

The dialogue convenes academics, policy experts, government officials, and maritime professionals from Southeast Asian countries, including coast guard representatives from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

A central theme is the aim of Southeast Asian states to maintain strategic autonomy and avoid being forced to choose sides in geopolitical disputes.

This track 1.5 dialogue, involving both government and non-governmental experts, notably excludes representatives from China and the United States.

Dr. Jeffrey Ordaniel, president of We Protect our Seas (WPS), stated that ASEAN countries can independently advance a rules-based maritime order.

The initiative seeks to foster discussions on maritime order reflecting Southeast Asian interests and generate actionable recommendations.

The first day of the dialogue featured a keynote address from Philippine National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año and a fireside chat with Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan of the Philippine Coast Guard, along with Indonesian and Malaysian officials.