The India's clout globally is on the rise, there are no two ways about it. The nations across the globe see India as a major powerhouse and this is not only evident but New Delhi's responsible role as the chair of global bodies such as G20 and SCO.

India key to global blocs: ASEAN nations see India as an ally

From NATO to ASEAN, India key to global blocs; World's most powerful want India on their side | WION

At their annual retreat on Saturday (February 4) in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, the foreign ministers of Southeast Asia agreed to conclude discussions with China about a proposed agreement aimed at averting conflicts&nbsp;in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp;In the concluding session of their two-day meeting, the ASEAN ministers also decided to coordinate their efforts to put into effect a five-point agreement that Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the military in Myanmar, and ASEAN leaders signed in 2021 to stop the country's escalating conflict.

A "code of conduct", a collection of regional conventions and regulations aimed at averting conflict, has been the subject of intermittent discussions between China and the ASEAN member nations for years. These governments include four opposing claimants to territory in the South China Sea.

The proposed deal is the subject of ongoing negotiations, the first of which will take place in March, according to Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. As this year's ASEAN chair, Indonesia is prepared to host further rounds of these talks. She stated that the ASEAN participants are dedicated to wrapping up the talks "as soon as possible."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/explained-imf-lifts-2023-global-growth-forecast-in-world-economic-outlook-updated-report-557556">Explained: IMF lifts 2023 global growth forecast in World Economic Outlook updated report</a>

“Members are also committed to promote the implementation of a declaration of conduct,” Marsudi added.

Marsudi did not go into any detail, but China has already charged Washington of interfering in what it refers to be an Asian crisis. To encourage the freedom of overflight and navigation, the U.S. has sent ships and planes out to sea. It has frequently expressed concern about China's provocative activities, such as the building of islands on which it has stationed armaments such as surface-to-air missiles.

The ASEAN member nations will advance discussions this year and consider new strategies, Sidharto Suryodipuro, director of ASEAN Cooperation at the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, told reporters in Jakarta.

Also watch |&nbsp;China abetting Russian invasion of Ukraine as it sends military aid to Moscow

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“All of us agreed that it has to be an effective implementable in accordance with international law, and the code of conduct must fulfill this criteria,” Suryodipuro said. “It’s an exploratory stage. We don’t know what shape it will take, but as you know negotiation is a key process that is something we intend to intensify.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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At their annual retreat on Saturday (February 4) in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, the foreign ministers of Southeast Asia agreed to conclude discussions with China about a proposed agreement aimed at averting conflicts in the disputed South China Sea.

At their annual retreat on Saturday (February 4) in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, the foreign ministers of Southeast Asia agreed to conclude discussions with China about a proposed agreement aimed at averting conflicts in the disputed South China Sea. In the concluding session of their two-day meeting, the ASEAN ministers also decided to coordinate their efforts to put into effect a five-point agreement that Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the military in Myanmar, and ASEAN leaders signed in 2021 to stop the country's escalating conflict. A "code of conduct", a collection of regional conventions and regulations aimed at averting conflict, has been the subject of intermittent discussions between China and the ASEAN member nations for years. These governments include four opposing claimants to territory in the South China Sea. The proposed deal is the subject of ongoing negotiations, the first of which will take place in March, according to Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. As this year's ASEAN chair, Indonesia is prepared to host further rounds of these talks. She stated that the ASEAN participants are dedicated to wrapping up the talks "as soon as possible." Also read | Explained: IMF lifts 2023 global growth forecast in World Economic Outlook updated report “Members are also committed to promote the implementation of a declaration of conduct,” Marsudi added. Marsudi did not go into any detail, but China has already charged Washington of interfering in what it refers to be an Asian crisis. To encourage the freedom of overflight and navigation, the U.S. has sent ships and planes out to sea. It has frequently expressed concern about China's provocative activities, such as the building of islands on which it has stationed armaments such as surface-to-air missiles. The ASEAN member nations will advance discussions this year and consider new strategies, Sidharto Suryodipuro, director of ASEAN Cooperation at the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, told reporters in Jakarta. Also watch | China abetting Russian invasion of Ukraine as it sends military aid to Moscow “All of us agreed that it has to be an effective implementable in accordance with international law, and the code of conduct must fulfill this criteria,” Suryodipuro said. “It’s an exploratory stage. We don’t know what shape it will take, but as you know negotiation is a key process that is something we intend to intensify.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

ASEAN commits to reach agreement with China over disputed territory

Multiple Summits have taken place in the last few weeks. The world is of course looking at a very fragile economy and an international world order that appears to be changing from the SCO to the APEC.

ASEAN, SCO among the summits recently held; Ukraine war, economic crisis plague the world

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Sunday that China was continuously and increasingly taking actions that were infringing on Japan's sovereignty thus escalating tensions in the region. He was addressing the Association of East Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Cambodia. Kishida also said that peace and stability in Taiwan Strait was important for regional security.

He also voiced "Serious concern" over human rights situation of the Uyghur people.

"There has been continued, increasing actions by China in the East China Sea that violate Japan's sovereignty. China also continues to take actions that heighten regional tension in the South China Sea," Kishida told the meeting, according to a statement by Japan's foreign ministry.

Watch | Taiwanese President's stance against China, says 'existence not a provocation to anyone'

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Kishida's words have come after US President Joe Biden who, on Sunday, stressed importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait. Biden addressed the ASEAN summit as well.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/let-taiwan-still-be-the-taiwan-of-the-taiwanese-people-says-president-tsai-533629">'Let Taiwan still be the Taiwan of the Taiwanese people,' says President Tsai</a>

China has been denying abuse of the Uyghur Muslims. It is an ethnic minority based in China's far-western Xinjiang region. China has also sent a delegation to Geneva to oppose what it says are erroneous findings by UN office.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-urges-japan-s-korea-to-join-hands-on-n-korean-and-chinese-threat-533744">Biden urges Japan &amp; S Korea to join hands on N Korean and Chinese threat</a>

Kishida is in Cambodia to attend the East Asian summit, which groups eighteen countries accounting for half of the global economy including Japan, the United States, China and Southeast Asian nations. He will also join the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Indonesia's Bali that kicks off on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Sunday that China was continuously and increasingly taking actions that were infringing on Japan's sovereignty thus escalating tensions in the region.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Sunday that China was continuously and increasingly taking actions that were infringing on Japan's sovereignty thus escalating tensions in the region. He was addressing the Association of East Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Cambodia. Kishida also said that peace and stability in Taiwan Strait was important for regional security. He also voiced "Serious concern" over human rights situation of the Uyghur people. "There has been continued, increasing actions by China in the East China Sea that violate Japan's sovereignty. China also continues to take actions that heighten regional tension in the South China Sea," Kishida told the meeting, according to a statement by Japan's foreign ministry. Watch | Taiwanese President's stance against China, says 'existence not a provocation to anyone' × Kishida's words have come after US President Joe Biden who, on Sunday, stressed importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait. Biden addressed the ASEAN summit as well. Also Read | 'Let Taiwan still be the Taiwan of the Taiwanese people,' says President Tsai China has been denying abuse of the Uyghur Muslims. It is an ethnic minority based in China's far-western Xinjiang region. China has also sent a delegation to Geneva to oppose what it says are erroneous findings by UN office. Also Read | Biden urges Japan & S Korea to join hands on N Korean and Chinese threat Kishida is in Cambodia to attend the East Asian summit, which groups eighteen countries accounting for half of the global economy including Japan, the United States, China and Southeast Asian nations. He will also join the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Indonesia's Bali that kicks off on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China is infringing on Japan's sovereignty, Kishida tells ASEAN 

About USD 1 billion in customer funds have vanished from troubled cryptocurrency exchange FTX. In other news,&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;said that Turkiye's F-16 fighter jet purchase would be "much easier" if Republicans controlled the US Senate.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-end-for-ftxs-troubles-crypto-exchange-claims-it-has-been-hacked-600-million-transferred-533561">FTX founder secretly moved $10bn of customer funds to his firm, over $1bn missing: Report</a>
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About USD 1 billion in customer funds have vanished from troubled cryptocurrency exchange FTX, Reuters reported citing top official sources.&nbsp;The exchange's founder Sam Bankman-Fried secretly transferred $10 billion of customer funds from FTX to Bankman-Fried's trading company Alameda Research, the people told Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiyes-erdogan-wants-republican-senate-in-us-says-will-benefit-f-16-purchase-533564">Turkiye's Erdogan wants Republican Senate in US, says it will ease its F-16 purchase&nbsp;</a>
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Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan appeared to endorse US Republican Party as he said that Turkiye's F-16 fighter jet purchase would be "much easier" if Republicans controlled the US Senate. He was quoted by Anadolu and other Turkish media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bahrains-official-websites-hacked-before-parliamentary-elections-533567">Bahrain's official websites hacked, 'boycott polls' message posted amid voting for elections: Reports</a>
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The island nation of Bahrain, which has been fighting dissent for ten years, conducted its&nbsp; parliamentary and local elections on Saturday, just hours after its official websites was taken over by hackers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-launches-cargo-craft-tianzhou-5-to-space-station-to-replenish-supplies-for-next-manned-mission-533584">China launches cargo craft Tianzhou-5 to space station to replenish supplies for next manned mission</a>
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In an effort to clear the way for a subsequent manned space trip later this year, China launched a cargo spaceship on Saturday carrying supplies for its new space station. At 10:03 am, a Long March 7 rocket carrying the cargo ship Tianzhou 5 launched from the Wenchang spaceport in the southern province of Hainan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medibank-data-leak-russia-responds-after-australian-police-blame-hackers-based-in-russia-533549">Medibank data leak: Russia responds after Australian police blame hackers based in Russia</a>
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Hours after&nbsp;Australian Federal Police (AFP) blamed Russian hackers for the Medibank hack, the Russian embassy on Friday evening released a statement, criticising AFP and its&nbsp;Commissioner Reece&nbsp;Kershaw's decision to openly blame Moscow.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-appoints-new-envoy-to-israel-after-four-year-hiatus-533555">Turkiye appoints new envoy to Israel after four-year hiatus</a>
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Turkiye has finally&nbsp;appointed an ambassador to Israel as the latest move toward mending&nbsp;relations with the Jewish state, after a four-year hiatus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-will-forgo-the-family-photo-at-the-g20-summit-in-bali-this-year-heres-why-533580">World leaders to forgo the ‘family photo’ at the G20 summit in Bali this year. Here’s why</a>
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Ahead of the G20 summit in Indonesia’s Bali next week world leaders have decided to skip the “family photo” due to the widespread discomfort and tension over the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine that began earlier this year. The family photo is a tradition that all the leaders participate in at the beginning of every year’s summit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-and-france-to-strike-deal-to-stop-migrants-from-crossing-english-channel-533582">UK and France to strike deal to stop migrants from crossing English Channel</a>
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An agreement between Britain and France to step up their combined efforts to prevent dangerous English Channel crossings by illegal immigrants is expected to be reached as soon as Monday, according to a British newspaper.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-considering-exporting-made-in-china-evs-to-us-canada-533593">Tesla considering exporting made-in-China EVs to US, Canada: Report</a>
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In order to connect its biggest plant to its biggest market in North America, Tesla has thought of exporting electric vehicles built in China to the US and Canada, as reported by Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-should-push-russia-to-respect-international-law-says-eu-chief-533596">EU expects China to push Moscow to respect international law: European Council President</a>
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European Council President Charles Michel said that the European Union expected China to push Moscow to respect international law. He said that China should use "all means at its disposal" for this. Michel's statement came just days before G20 summit takes place. It is expected that the issue of Ukraine war will dominate the summit.

About USD 1 billion in customer funds have vanished from troubled cryptocurrency exchange FTX. In other news, Erdogan said that Turkiye's F-16 fighter jet purchase would be "much easier" if Republicans controlled the US Senate.

About USD 1 billion in customer funds have vanished from troubled cryptocurrency exchange FTX. In other news, Erdogan said that Turkiye's F-16 fighter jet purchase would be "much easier" if Republicans controlled the US Senate. Click on the headlines to read more: FTX founder secretly moved $10bn of customer funds to his firm, over $1bn missing: Report About USD 1 billion in customer funds have vanished from troubled cryptocurrency exchange FTX, Reuters reported citing top official sources. The exchange's founder Sam Bankman-Fried secretly transferred $10 billion of customer funds from FTX to Bankman-Fried's trading company Alameda Research, the people told Reuters. Turkiye's Erdogan wants Republican Senate in US, says it will ease its F-16 purchase Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan appeared to endorse US Republican Party as he said that Turkiye's F-16 fighter jet purchase would be "much easier" if Republicans controlled the US Senate. He was quoted by Anadolu and other Turkish media. Bahrain's official websites hacked, 'boycott polls' message posted amid voting for elections: Reports The island nation of Bahrain, which has been fighting dissent for ten years, conducted its parliamentary and local elections on Saturday, just hours after its official websites was taken over by hackers. China launches cargo craft Tianzhou-5 to space station to replenish supplies for next manned mission In an effort to clear the way for a subsequent manned space trip later this year, China launched a cargo spaceship on Saturday carrying supplies for its new space station. At 10:03 am, a Long March 7 rocket carrying the cargo ship Tianzhou 5 launched from the Wenchang spaceport in the southern province of Hainan. Medibank data leak: Russia responds after Australian police blame hackers based in Russia Hours after Australian Federal Police (AFP) blamed Russian hackers for the Medibank hack, the Russian embassy on Friday evening released a statement, criticising AFP and its Commissioner Reece Kershaw's decision to openly blame Moscow. Turkiye appoints new envoy to Israel after four-year hiatus Turkiye has finally appointed an ambassador to Israel as the latest move toward mending relations with the Jewish state, after a four-year hiatus. World leaders to forgo the ‘family photo’ at the G20 summit in Bali this year. Here’s why Ahead of the G20 summit in Indonesia’s Bali next week world leaders have decided to skip the “family photo” due to the widespread discomfort and tension over the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine that began earlier this year. The family photo is a tradition that all the leaders participate in at the beginning of every year’s summit. UK and France to strike deal to stop migrants from crossing English Channel An agreement between Britain and France to step up their combined efforts to prevent dangerous English Channel crossings by illegal immigrants is expected to be reached as soon as Monday, according to a British newspaper. Tesla considering exporting made-in-China EVs to US, Canada: Report In order to connect its biggest plant to its biggest market in North America, Tesla has thought of exporting electric vehicles built in China to the US and Canada, as reported by Reuters. EU expects China to push Moscow to respect international law: European Council President European Council President Charles Michel said that the European Union expected China to push Moscow to respect international law. He said that China should use "all means at its disposal" for this. Michel's statement came just days before G20 summit takes place. It is expected that the issue of Ukraine war will dominate the summit.

Top 10 world news: FTX embezzlement, Erdogan wants Republican Senate in US, and more

President of the United States Joe Biden made another faux pas on Saturday when he said&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;when referring to Cambodia, which is hosting the ASEAN summit.

While meeting his counterparts from ASEAN in Phnom Penh, Biden said, "Now that we're back together here in Cambodia, I look forward to building even stronger progress than we've already made, and I want to thank the Prime Minister of Colombia for his leadership as ASEAN chair and for hosting all of us."&nbsp;

He was alluding to the 10-nation regional bloc's current chair, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.&nbsp;

The US President, who is on a quick trip that includes stops at the G20 meeting in Indonesia, the ASEAN summit in Phnom Penh, and the COP27 climate summit in Egypt, recently made a similar error while speaking to reporters at the White House.

The Democratic president, who will be 80 on November 20, announced this week that he plans to seek re-election in 2024. A final decision is anticipated to be made early in the following year.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-countries-resisted-mentioning-15degc-goal-in-cop27-text-us-climate-envoy-533576">Some countries resisted mentioning 1.5°C goal in COP27 text: US climate envoy</a>

Republicans have seized on Biden's sporadic verbal slip-ups and propensity to veer from the script during live appearances as evidence that he is past his prime and unfit for office.&nbsp;

Supporters&nbsp;point out that Biden&nbsp;has been improvising in public talks for decades despite having overcome a childhood stutter.

(with inputs from agencies)

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President of the United States Joe Biden made another faux pas on Saturday when he said Colombia when referring to Cambodia, which is hosting the ASEAN summit. While meeting his counterparts from ASEAN in Phnom Penh, Biden said, "Now that we're back together here in Cambodia, I look forward to building even stronger progress than we've already made, and I want to thank the Prime Minister of Colombia for his leadership as ASEAN chair and for hosting all of us.

President of the United States Joe Biden made another faux pas on Saturday when he said Colombia when referring to Cambodia, which is hosting the ASEAN summit. While meeting his counterparts from ASEAN in Phnom Penh, Biden said, "Now that we're back together here in Cambodia, I look forward to building even stronger progress than we've already made, and I want to thank the Prime Minister of Colombia for his leadership as ASEAN chair and for hosting all of us." He was alluding to the 10-nation regional bloc's current chair, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The US President, who is on a quick trip that includes stops at the G20 meeting in Indonesia, the ASEAN summit in Phnom Penh, and the COP27 climate summit in Egypt, recently made a similar error while speaking to reporters at the White House. The Democratic president, who will be 80 on November 20, announced this week that he plans to seek re-election in 2024. A final decision is anticipated to be made early in the following year. Also Read: Some countries resisted mentioning 1.5°C goal in COP27 text: US climate envoy Republicans have seized on Biden's sporadic verbal slip-ups and propensity to veer from the script during live appearances as evidence that he is past his prime and unfit for office. Supporters point out that Biden has been improvising in public talks for decades despite having overcome a childhood stutter. (with inputs from agencies)

Another slip-up from Biden, thanks Colombia instead of Cambodia at ASEAN summit

US President Joe Biden on Saturday (November 12) held talks with Southeast Asian leaders during Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Cambodia. Biden hailed the new US-ASEAN pact as a critical which will help tackling "the biggest issue of our time."

This was Biden's first visit to Southeast Asia as a president. The US president said that the region was at the heart of his administration's Indo-Pacific strategy and Washington was committing resources, not just rhetoric, under a new Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

"Together we will tackle the biggest issues of our time, from climate, to health security, to defend against the significant threat to the rule-based order," he said, opening a meeting in Cambodia with leaders of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

"We will build an Indo Pacific that's free and open, stable and prosperous, and resilient and secure," he added.

ASEAN is engaging a host of leaders, including Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol.

Biden's presence comes as the United States seeks to reassert itself after a period of regional uncertainty about its commitment under US predecessor Donald Trump, and concerted efforts by rival China to boost its influence and fill the void.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden on Saturday (November 12) held talks with Southeast Asian leaders during Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Cambodia.

US President Joe Biden on Saturday (November 12) held talks with Southeast Asian leaders during Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Cambodia. Biden hailed the new US-ASEAN pact as a critical which will help tackling "the biggest issue of our time." This was Biden's first visit to Southeast Asia as a president. The US president said that the region was at the heart of his administration's Indo-Pacific strategy and Washington was committing resources, not just rhetoric, under a new Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. "Together we will tackle the biggest issues of our time, from climate, to health security, to defend against the significant threat to the rule-based order," he said, opening a meeting in Cambodia with leaders of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations. "We will build an Indo Pacific that's free and open, stable and prosperous, and resilient and secure," he added. ASEAN is engaging a host of leaders, including Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. Biden's presence comes as the United States seeks to reassert itself after a period of regional uncertainty about its commitment under US predecessor Donald Trump, and concerted efforts by rival China to boost its influence and fill the void. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US-ASEAN pact to tackle 'biggest issues of our time,' says Biden in Cambodia

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) annual summit is currently taking place in Cambodia, and on Saturday, the region's political leaders will meet with a number of visiting world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba.

According to Reuters, speaking at the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits Ukraine's foreign minister Kuleba urged Southeast Asian nations to take all necessary precautions to ensure that Russia did not play hunger games in regard to shipments of Ukrainian grain to the international market.

Speaking with reporters on the sidelines, Kuleba stressed that there was no sign that Moscow was looking to negotiate with Ukraine and that his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, who is also present at the summit, had not asked for a meeting.

Watch |&nbsp;ASEAN Summit 2022: India's Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar addresses summit

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Jagdeep Dhankhar, the vice president of India, also met with the leaders of ASEAN.&nbsp;Before a closed-door meeting with ASEAN leaders,&nbsp;Dhankhar remarked, "India and ASEAN share the common vision of ensuring peace, prosperity and stability in the region."

Also on Saturday, Yoon Suk-yeol, the president of South Korea, expressed his desire for a mechanism for three-way relations with China and Japan to be activated as soon as possible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asean-still-struggling-to-find-solution-for-myanmar-crisis-533155">ASEAN still struggling to find solution for Myanmar crisis</a>

Yoon called for more concerted efforts to be made for resolving&nbsp;complex future crises, including those brought on by conflict and human rights violations around the world, as well as threats to the security of food and energy brought on by climate change.

Senior administration sources indicated earlier this week that the US president, who has arrived in Cambodia for the summit, will concentrate on the Indo-Pacific region and underscore US commitment to a rules-based international order in the South China Sea in his meetings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asean-agrees-to-let-east-timor-join-the-regional-grouping-533222https://www.wionews.com/world/asean-agrees-to-let-east-timor-join-the-regional-grouping-533222">ASEAN members agree to allow East Timor join the regional grouping, be its 11th member</a>

Biden's attendance at the ASEAN summits was hailed as&nbsp;proof that the US was returning to "normal diplomacy," while several experts downplayed expectations of any major changes.

On Friday, as social and political unrest in Myanmar worsens, ASEAN leaders have "warned" the nation to make significant progress on a peace plan or risk being excluded from the group's summits, reported AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) annual summit is currently taking place in Cambodia, and on Saturday, the region's political leaders will meet with a number of visiting world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) annual summit is currently taking place in Cambodia, and on Saturday, the region's political leaders will meet with a number of visiting world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba. According to Reuters, speaking at the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits Ukraine's foreign minister Kuleba urged Southeast Asian nations to take all necessary precautions to ensure that Russia did not play hunger games in regard to shipments of Ukrainian grain to the international market. Speaking with reporters on the sidelines, Kuleba stressed that there was no sign that Moscow was looking to negotiate with Ukraine and that his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, who is also present at the summit, had not asked for a meeting. Watch | ASEAN Summit 2022: India's Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar addresses summit Jagdeep Dhankhar, the vice president of India, also met with the leaders of ASEAN. Before a closed-door meeting with ASEAN leaders, Dhankhar remarked, "India and ASEAN share the common vision of ensuring peace, prosperity and stability in the region." Also on Saturday, Yoon Suk-yeol, the president of South Korea, expressed his desire for a mechanism for three-way relations with China and Japan to be activated as soon as possible. Also read | ASEAN still struggling to find solution for Myanmar crisis Yoon called for more concerted efforts to be made for resolving complex future crises, including those brought on by conflict and human rights violations around the world, as well as threats to the security of food and energy brought on by climate change. Senior administration sources indicated earlier this week that the US president, who has arrived in Cambodia for the summit, will concentrate on the Indo-Pacific region and underscore US commitment to a rules-based international order in the South China Sea in his meetings. Also read | ASEAN members agree to allow East Timor join the regional grouping, be its 11th member Biden's attendance at the ASEAN summits was hailed as proof that the US was returning to "normal diplomacy," while several experts downplayed expectations of any major changes. On Friday, as social and political unrest in Myanmar worsens, ASEAN leaders have "warned" the nation to make significant progress on a peace plan or risk being excluded from the group's summits, reported AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ASEAN Summit: Ukraine says Russia playing 'hunger games', no sign of negotiation willingness

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is still struggling to effectively tackle the escalating situation in Myanmar. The topic is expected to dominate summit-level talks on Friday (November 11). The leaders are likely to discuss ways to implement a peace plan agreed with Myanmar last year. The military junta in the country has largely ignored the plan.

Myanmar is in a state of chaos after the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi was toppled by the military last year in the month of February. The country has seen pro-democracy protests responded to by the military junta with&nbsp;brutal crackdown. Thousands have been killed in protests and clashes till date.

Watch | Biden hits world stage after Midterms: US President to attend COP27, G20 &amp; ASEAN Summit

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There is growing frustration among the other nine ASEAN countries at the generals' foot-dragging on the so-called "five-point consensus" but so far no concrete plan to enforce it.&nbsp;

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr of the Philippines called for "patience" in resolving the crisis at talks with Cambodian premier Hun Sen, the summit host.

ASEAN has blocked junta chief Min Aung Hlaing from attending the gathering in Phnom Penh, which US President Joe Biden will join on Saturday.

After attending the ASEAN gathering, Biden will then hold a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of G20 summit in Indonesia. The meeting is said to take place on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is still struggling to effectively tackle the escalating situation in Myanmar. The topic is expected to dominate summit-level talks on Friday (November 11).

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is still struggling to effectively tackle the escalating situation in Myanmar. The topic is expected to dominate summit-level talks on Friday (November 11). The leaders are likely to discuss ways to implement a peace plan agreed with Myanmar last year. The military junta in the country has largely ignored the plan. Myanmar is in a state of chaos after the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi was toppled by the military last year in the month of February. The country has seen pro-democracy protests responded to by the military junta with brutal crackdown. Thousands have been killed in protests and clashes till date. Watch | Biden hits world stage after Midterms: US President to attend COP27, G20 & ASEAN Summit × There is growing frustration among the other nine ASEAN countries at the generals' foot-dragging on the so-called "five-point consensus" but so far no concrete plan to enforce it. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr of the Philippines called for "patience" in resolving the crisis at talks with Cambodian premier Hun Sen, the summit host. ASEAN has blocked junta chief Min Aung Hlaing from attending the gathering in Phnom Penh, which US President Joe Biden will join on Saturday. After attending the ASEAN gathering, Biden will then hold a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of G20 summit in Indonesia. The meeting is said to take place on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

ASEAN still struggling to find solution for Myanmar crisis

The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday (November 11) gave in-principle nod to inclusion of East Timor to the 10-nation regional bloc. The decision was announced in a statement released by summit host Cambodia.&nbsp;"We the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations... agreed in principle to admit Timor-Leste to be the 11th member of ASEAN," the statement said.

East Timor is the youngest country in Southeast Asia. It gained independence from Indonesia as recently as 2002 after 24 years of occupation.

ASEAN leaders have gathered in Phnom Penh in Cambodia. The leaders agreed to grant East Timor 'observer' status and the right &nbsp;to attend ASEAN meetings and summit sessions, according to the statement.&nbsp;

The bloc will now draw up a roadmap setting out the criteria East Timor must hit before being granted full membership.&nbsp;

The former Portuguese colony is one of the poorest countries in the world and is grappling with high levels of inequality, malnourishment and unemployment.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asean-still-struggling-to-find-solution-for-myanmar-crisis-533155">ASEAN still struggling to find solution for Myanmar crisis</a>

President Jose Ramos-Horta has long campaigned for ASEAN membership and an application was first submitted in 2011.&nbsp; 
 
Ramos-Horta, who was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize, won a second term in office in April, having previously served from 2007 to 2012.

Indonesia -- which takes over the ASEAN chair from Cambodia in 2023 -- had hoped East Timor can officially join the ASEAN family next year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday (November 11) gave in-principle nod to inclusion of East Timor to the 10-nation regional bloc. The decision was announced in a statement released by summit host Cambodia.

The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday (November 11) gave in-principle nod to inclusion of East Timor to the 10-nation regional bloc. The decision was announced in a statement released by summit host Cambodia. "We the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations... agreed in principle to admit Timor-Leste to be the 11th member of ASEAN," the statement said. East Timor is the youngest country in Southeast Asia. It gained independence from Indonesia as recently as 2002 after 24 years of occupation. ASEAN leaders have gathered in Phnom Penh in Cambodia. The leaders agreed to grant East Timor 'observer' status and the right to attend ASEAN meetings and summit sessions, according to the statement. The bloc will now draw up a roadmap setting out the criteria East Timor must hit before being granted full membership. The former Portuguese colony is one of the poorest countries in the world and is grappling with high levels of inequality, malnourishment and unemployment. Also Read | ASEAN still struggling to find solution for Myanmar crisis President Jose Ramos-Horta has long campaigned for ASEAN membership and an application was first submitted in 2011. Ramos-Horta, who was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize, won a second term in office in April, having previously served from 2007 to 2012. Indonesia -- which takes over the ASEAN chair from Cambodia in 2023 -- had hoped East Timor can officially join the ASEAN family next year. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

ASEAN members agree to allow East Timor join the regional grouping, be its 11th member

During talks in Indonesia on Thursday ahead of the ASEAN leaders' summit in November, Southeast Asian foreign ministers said they were "even more determined" to solve the political crisis in Myanmar.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military coup in February last year, but despite its expressions of concern, efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have yet to bear any fruit.

But "ASEAN should not be discouraged, but even more determined to help Myanmar to bring about a peaceful solution", said Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn after the emergency meeting at the bloc's secretariat in Jakarta.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/did-turkey-help-pakistan-to-set-up-a-secret-cyber-army-against-india-528906" hreflang="en">Did Turkey help Pakistan set up a 'secret cyber army' against India?</a>

Myanmar's junta had declined to send a non-political figure to the meeting.

More than 2,300 people have been killed in the Myanmar military's brutal crackdown on dissent after the coup, according to a local monitor.

The United States had urged strong action at Thursday's meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-warns-of-negative-implications-after-junta-was-not-represented-in-asean-meeting-529191">WATCH |&nbsp;Myanmar warns of 'negative implications' after Junta was not represented in ASEAN meeting</a>

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Daniel Kritenbrink, the top US diplomat for East Asia, said at an event in Washington that the junta was leading "the complete destruction of all the progress made over the last decade" as Myanmar transitioned to democracy.

"We are not going to sit idly by while this violence continues; we're not going to sit idly by while the junta prepares for what will be completely fake and sham elections that they talk about holding next year."

Kritenbrink said Washington had "great respect" for ASEAN, but US officials have expressed frustration in the past at the lack of progress on the bloc's own plan for the crisis, which called for an end to the violence, increased aid and dialogue.

"I think all the ASEAN countries need to hold the regime accountable," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in July.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-united-states-planning-to-accelerate-the-plans-to-store-upgraded-nukes-in-europe-528891">Is United States accelerating plans to upgrade nukes at NATO bases in Europe?</a>

"To date, we have not seen positive movement in that direction."

ASEAN ministers reaffirmed on Thursday their commitment to the&nbsp;five-point plan, first proposed in April 2022.

"The situation on the ground remains critical and fragile, and this is not due to the lack of commitments and efforts on the part of ASEAN... but because of the complexity and difficulty of Myanmar's decades-long protracted conflicts," he said.

"The time to act is now."

Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has not been invited to the ASEAN leaders' summit in Cambodia next month -- for the second year in a row -- and Myanmar's top diplomat Wunna Maung Lwin was excluded from ministerial talks in February and August.

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During talks in Indonesia on Thursday ahead of the ASEAN leaders' summit in November, Southeast Asian foreign ministers said they were "even more determined" to solve the political crisis in Myanmar.

During talks in Indonesia on Thursday ahead of the ASEAN leaders' summit in November, Southeast Asian foreign ministers said they were "even more determined" to solve the political crisis in Myanmar. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military coup in February last year, but despite its expressions of concern, efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have yet to bear any fruit. But "ASEAN should not be discouraged, but even more determined to help Myanmar to bring about a peaceful solution", said Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn after the emergency meeting at the bloc's secretariat in Jakarta. Also read | Did Turkey help Pakistan set up a 'secret cyber army' against India? Myanmar's junta had declined to send a non-political figure to the meeting. More than 2,300 people have been killed in the Myanmar military's brutal crackdown on dissent after the coup, according to a local monitor. The United States had urged strong action at Thursday's meeting. WATCH | Myanmar warns of 'negative implications' after Junta was not represented in ASEAN meeting × Daniel Kritenbrink, the top US diplomat for East Asia, said at an event in Washington that the junta was leading "the complete destruction of all the progress made over the last decade" as Myanmar transitioned to democracy. "We are not going to sit idly by while this violence continues; we're not going to sit idly by while the junta prepares for what will be completely fake and sham elections that they talk about holding next year." Kritenbrink said Washington had "great respect" for ASEAN, but US officials have expressed frustration in the past at the lack of progress on the bloc's own plan for the crisis, which called for an end to the violence, increased aid and dialogue. "I think all the ASEAN countries need to hold the regime accountable," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in July. Also read | Is United States accelerating plans to upgrade nukes at NATO bases in Europe? "To date, we have not seen positive movement in that direction." ASEAN ministers reaffirmed on Thursday their commitment to the five-point plan, first proposed in April 2022. "The situation on the ground remains critical and fragile, and this is not due to the lack of commitments and efforts on the part of ASEAN... but because of the complexity and difficulty of Myanmar's decades-long protracted conflicts," he said. "The time to act is now." Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has not been invited to the ASEAN leaders' summit in Cambodia next month -- for the second year in a row -- and Myanmar's top diplomat Wunna Maung Lwin was excluded from ministerial talks in February and August. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

We are 'even more determined' to solve Myanmar crisis, say ASEAN ministers

Myanmar warns of 'negative implications' after Junta was not represented in ASEAN meeting. On the other hand, ASEAN is gravely concerned about escalating violence in Myanmar.

Myanmar warns of 'negative implications' after Junta was not represented in ASEAN meeting

Top Singapore diplomat Ong Keng Yong has said when it comes to negotiations for Asean China Code of Conduct, it "will take time to resolve". The code of conduct is for South China sea (SCS) and aims to reduce risk of any crisis in the region whose large swathes are claimed by Beijing. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Singapore, Yong said, "The difference is now being resolved, it's not easy. Simply put, The Chinese side wants to create a new legal and international regime for a region that is critical to international shipping".

Yong is currently ambassador at large at Singapore foreign ministry &amp; in the past been Singapore's high commissioner to India. He also spoke about India - Singapore ties, India as an investment destination. Transcript by Shriya Handoo.

WION: How do you see the Indian- Singapore relationship?

Ong Keng Yong: we have a good relationship, but we have some issues from time to time. The Leadership will know how to solve them. The fundamental India- Singapore relation is very good.

WION: We recently saw the 3+4 dialogue in New Delhi. What does that dialogue signify, and will that be a permanent fixture in the relationship in terms of an annual gathering of the ministers?

Ong Keng Yong:&nbsp;The leadership in India in Singapore. They have reaffirmed the understanding of how this particular friendship between Singapore and India should proceed. And now they have ministerial round table 3+4, it's a good signal to the people of India in Singapore. The leadership has a format to go forward. At the economic level, there are many things left unfinished due to political and other developments in India in Singapore, and the ASEAN region. The signal is that let's move on India's role in ASEAN in the bigger Asian region should be more prominent. Hopefully, Singaporean leadership and Indian leadership have reached a way forward.

WION: How do you see India as a country for investments or perhaps there is some difficulty for the Singaporeans to invest? How do you see India at that place?

Ong Keng Yong:&nbsp;It is never easy to do business in any other country. People of India forget that it is a big sub-continent of Asia and there are many different states in India. So, for the Singaporean community doing business there, we have to navigate the necessary avenue and legal procedures, and local order. Overall, the message we get is that India is a substantial market for Singaporean goods and services. Sure, there will be difficulties, but we have to learn how to navigate these challenges. The important thing is the business community in Singapore is very enthusiastic about the Indian market. We just have to do our best to facilitate this whole endeavored business and investors people wish to undertake? &nbsp;

WION: Can you give a little update on the code of conduct which is being negotiated between ASEAN and China? Are there any issues that are coming because it has been a long time since negotiations are going on?

Ong Keng Yong:&nbsp;The issues are there, but it will take more time to resolve them. But essentially between ASEAN and China, the most important element do we follow what is internationally available or do we create something new for this particular arena. ASEAN prefers to follow what is there in the international arena. We have other kinds of agreements between different states, but it governs the movement of ships and other activities in the ocean in Southeast Asia and China. The difference is now being resolved, it's not easy. Simply put, The Chinese side wants to create a new legal and international regime for a region that is critical to international shipping and a global community dealing in trade and investment.

WION: Is there a worry over aggressive China in the region?

Ong Keng Yong:&nbsp;&nbsp;Every country has its own respective stand on certain issues and yes, we go on talking to one another but at one point in the future we have to say, let's wrap it up, you made your stand, we have our own point, but how to go forward. I think both China and ASEAN want peace, without peace we cannot develop our economy, and we can't really have more prosperity and security. Eventually, after all the grandstanding and all sharing of their respective positions, we have to ask ourselves, how do we go forward I think we are still posturing in many ways but I think there is more to go forward.

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Top Singapore diplomat Ong Keng Yong has said when it comes to negotiations for Asean China Code of Conduct, it "will take time to resolve". The code of conduct is for South China sea (SCS) and aims to reduce risk of any crisis in the region whose large swathes are claimed by Beijing.

Top Singapore diplomat Ong Keng Yong has said when it comes to negotiations for Asean China Code of Conduct, it "will take time to resolve". The code of conduct is for South China sea (SCS) and aims to reduce risk of any crisis in the region whose large swathes are claimed by Beijing. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Singapore, Yong said, "The difference is now being resolved, it's not easy. Simply put, The Chinese side wants to create a new legal and international regime for a region that is critical to international shipping". Yong is currently ambassador at large at Singapore foreign ministry & in the past been Singapore's high commissioner to India. He also spoke about India - Singapore ties, India as an investment destination. Transcript by Shriya Handoo. WION: How do you see the Indian- Singapore relationship? Ong Keng Yong: we have a good relationship, but we have some issues from time to time. The Leadership will know how to solve them. The fundamental India- Singapore relation is very good. WION: We recently saw the 3+4 dialogue in New Delhi. What does that dialogue signify, and will that be a permanent fixture in the relationship in terms of an annual gathering of the ministers? Ong Keng Yong: The leadership in India in Singapore. They have reaffirmed the understanding of how this particular friendship between Singapore and India should proceed. And now they have ministerial round table 3+4, it's a good signal to the people of India in Singapore. The leadership has a format to go forward. At the economic level, there are many things left unfinished due to political and other developments in India in Singapore, and the ASEAN region. The signal is that let's move on India's role in ASEAN in the bigger Asian region should be more prominent. Hopefully, Singaporean leadership and Indian leadership have reached a way forward. WION: How do you see India as a country for investments or perhaps there is some difficulty for the Singaporeans to invest? How do you see India at that place? Ong Keng Yong: It is never easy to do business in any other country. People of India forget that it is a big sub-continent of Asia and there are many different states in India. So, for the Singaporean community doing business there, we have to navigate the necessary avenue and legal procedures, and local order. Overall, the message we get is that India is a substantial market for Singaporean goods and services. Sure, there will be difficulties, but we have to learn how to navigate these challenges. The important thing is the business community in Singapore is very enthusiastic about the Indian market. We just have to do our best to facilitate this whole endeavored business and investors people wish to undertake? WION: Can you give a little update on the code of conduct which is being negotiated between ASEAN and China? Are there any issues that are coming because it has been a long time since negotiations are going on? Ong Keng Yong: The issues are there, but it will take more time to resolve them. But essentially between ASEAN and China, the most important element do we follow what is internationally available or do we create something new for this particular arena. ASEAN prefers to follow what is there in the international arena. We have other kinds of agreements between different states, but it governs the movement of ships and other activities in the ocean in Southeast Asia and China. The difference is now being resolved, it's not easy. Simply put, The Chinese side wants to create a new legal and international regime for a region that is critical to international shipping and a global community dealing in trade and investment. WION: Is there a worry over aggressive China in the region? Ong Keng Yong: Every country has its own respective stand on certain issues and yes, we go on talking to one another but at one point in the future we have to say, let's wrap it up, you made your stand, we have our own point, but how to go forward. I think both China and ASEAN want peace, without peace we cannot develop our economy, and we can't really have more prosperity and security. Eventually, after all the grandstanding and all sharing of their respective positions, we have to ask ourselves, how do we go forward I think we are still posturing in many ways but I think there is more to go forward.

Asean China SCS Code of conduct will take time to resolve, says Singapore diplomat

The <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peacekeeping-abuse-un-soldiers-fathered-and-abandoned-thousands-of-children-in-dr-congo-507198">United Nations’</a>&nbsp;special envoy for Myanmar visited the country on Monday for the first time since she took up her position in October.&nbsp;

Noeleen Heyzer's visit was in response to the latest appeal from the UN <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-nuclear-plant-risks-increasing-every-day-city-mayor-calls-it-nuclear-terrorism-506862">Security Council</a>&nbsp;for an urgent halt to all forms of violence and unhindered humanitarian access in the conflict-ridden nation.

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In addition to other priority areas of her mandate, Heyzer "will focus on addressing the deteriorating situation and immediate concerns," according to UN&nbsp;spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

He made no mention of whether Heyzer will meet with the country's imprisoned former leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, who has long been a demand of the U.N. Suu Kyi was sentenced to six more years in prison after being found guilty of additional corruption-related offences earlier on Monday.

Heyzer’s visit “follows her extensive consultations with actors from across the political spectrum, civil society as well as communities affected by the ongoing conflict,” Dujarric said.

The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations' special envoy to Myanmar, Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, claimed earlier this month that the recent executions of four political activists by Myanmar were impeding neighbouring countries' efforts to help the troubled country reestablish peace and normalcy.

Also read |&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-court-convicts-aung-san-suu-kyi-on-more-corruption-charges-507078">Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges</a>

He issued a warning that any executions would require the regional group to reevaluate its relations with sister member Myanmar.

Myanmar's army overthrew Suu Kyi's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-election-result-william-ruto-elected-5th-president-with-5049-of-vote-507171">elected</a> administration in February 2021, and after massive demonstrations against its actions broke out, it forcefully put an end to them. Some opponents of military authority took up arms when security forces used lethal force against nonviolent demonstrations.

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In April 2021, Myanmar's military leaders endorsed a five-point ASEAN peace and stability restoration plan, which calls for an end to all forms of violence immediately and for discussion between all sides. However, the military of the nation hasn't done much to put the plan into action, and as a result, Myanmar has descended into what some U.N. experts have called a civil war.

Heyzer, a Singaporean women's <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/afghanistan-under-taliban-narrated-by-an-afghan-woman-507027">rights</a>&nbsp;activist, served as the executive director of UNIFEM, a United Nations development agency that promotes women's economic advancement, from 1994 to 2007. She held the position of executive secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific for seven years, from 2007 to 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations’ special envoy for Myanmar visited the country on Monday for the first time since she took up her position in October. Noeleen Heyzer's visit was in response to the latest appeal from the UN Security Council for an urgent halt to all forms of violence and unhindered humanitarian access in the conflict-ridden nation.

The United Nations’ special envoy for Myanmar visited the country on Monday for the first time since she took up her position in October. Noeleen Heyzer's visit was in response to the latest appeal from the UN Security Council for an urgent halt to all forms of violence and unhindered humanitarian access in the conflict-ridden nation. In addition to other priority areas of her mandate, Heyzer "will focus on addressing the deteriorating situation and immediate concerns," according to UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric. He made no mention of whether Heyzer will meet with the country's imprisoned former leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, who has long been a demand of the U.N. Suu Kyi was sentenced to six more years in prison after being found guilty of additional corruption-related offences earlier on Monday. Heyzer’s visit “follows her extensive consultations with actors from across the political spectrum, civil society as well as communities affected by the ongoing conflict,” Dujarric said. The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations' special envoy to Myanmar, Cambodia's Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, claimed earlier this month that the recent executions of four political activists by Myanmar were impeding neighbouring countries' efforts to help the troubled country reestablish peace and normalcy. Also read | Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges He issued a warning that any executions would require the regional group to reevaluate its relations with sister member Myanmar. Myanmar's army overthrew Suu Kyi's elected administration in February 2021, and after massive demonstrations against its actions broke out, it forcefully put an end to them. Some opponents of military authority took up arms when security forces used lethal force against nonviolent demonstrations. In April 2021, Myanmar's military leaders endorsed a five-point ASEAN peace and stability restoration plan, which calls for an end to all forms of violence immediately and for discussion between all sides. However, the military of the nation hasn't done much to put the plan into action, and as a result, Myanmar has descended into what some U.N. experts have called a civil war. Heyzer, a Singaporean women's rights activist, served as the executive director of UNIFEM, a United Nations development agency that promotes women's economic advancement, from 1994 to 2007. She held the position of executive secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific for seven years, from 2007 to 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

UN envoy travels to conflict-torn Myanmar for the first time

As the ongoing ASEAN summit concludes in Cambodia today, the group has strongly condemned the Myanmar Junta of the lack of progress on the crisis resolution plan.

Myanmar gets banned from further ASEAN meetings till progress is shown

From US Secretary of State Antony Blinken taking part in a press conference after attending events at the 55th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting to India's central bank hiking interest rates for the third time in four months, here are some impactful images from around the world on 05 August 2022.

World in Pictures: Blinken attends ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meet; RBI hikes interest rates again

Tensions in the Taiwan Straits are at the top of the agenda of the ongoing ASEAN meeting. Foreign Ministers from the regional grouping are in Cambodia and in a statement , the group warns that tension could spark serious confrontation and open conflicts.

ASEAN members meet in Cambodia, warn against growing Taiwan conflict

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are holding a meeting in Cambodia to discuss the growing crisis in Myanmar. The ASEAN nations have unanimously expressed concerns over the growing standoff that's presently taking place at the Taiwan Strait.

WION Dispatch: ASEAN Summit 2022

Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are holding a meeting in Cambodia to discuss the growing crisis in Myanmar. Current ASEAN chair Cambodia on Wednesday warned Myanmar not to execute any more prisoners, after the hanging of four people.

ASEAN member nations discuss Myanmar crisis, warns against more executions

The Association of South East Asian Nations has kickstarted it's series of annual ministerial meetings in Cambodia. The deepening crisis in Myanmar amid other security issues tops the meeting's agenda.

Myanmar crisis tops ASEAN agenda in its annual meet in Cambodia

After the US speaker of the house Nancy Pelosi landed in Taiwan, the US and Chinese foreign ministers are expected to face each other at the ASEAN annual ministerial meeting, the summit aims to tackle the deepening regional crisis in Myanmar.

China, US leadership to face each other at ASEAN foreign ministers meet

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>Myanmar’s military government announced on Monday an extension of a state of emergency for another six months until Feb. 1, 2023, saying the country needed more time to restore stability and do the spadework for fresh elections.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The head of Myanmar's military Junta stated instability as the reason for stalling efforts to implement a peace plan agreed with other Southeast Asian countries as he extended the emergency rule.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>In February 2021, the Junta first declared a state of emergency after seizing power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Since then, Myanmar has been in chaos, with rampant conflicts after the army pulverised peaceful protests in towns and cities.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a political and economic bloc to promote intergovernmental cooperation amongst its member nations, agreed a five-point "consensus" to end hostilities last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

The plan that never saw the light of day was a roadmap to end the violence through dialogue.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing said in a speech aired on state media that Myanmar had been striving to overcome the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic while facing internal chaos.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>"So, it was difficult to implement the ASEAN consensus due to the lack of stability," said Min Aung Hlaing, adding that only when the situation was "normal" could progress be made.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>Western governments condemned the coup and the detention on various charges of Nobel laureate Suu Kyi and numerous members of her party and supporters.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>Some members of ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a member and which has a tradition of non-interference in each other's internal affairs, also criticised the generals.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>While the Junta has failed to implement the ASEAN plan, it has never rejected it. "Our country is an ASEAN state so we value the conventions of ASEAN," Min Aung Hlaing said.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The six-month logic<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The Junta said it had to seize power last year because of voting fraud in a November 2020 general election that Suu Kyi's party easily won. Election monitoring groups found no evidence of mass fraud.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The military has guaranteed new elections in August 2023 though opponents do not believe it would be free and fair.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>According to the Assistance Association for political prisoners, a human rights organisation, Security forces have already killed more than 2,100 people since the coup. The Junta on the other hand has said that the numbers were being overplayed.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The true picture of the violence has become murky since lightly armed People's Defence Forces have sprung up to take on the army. Their operations take place in more remote areas where ethnic minority insurgents are also fighting the military.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>In his speech, Min Aung Hlaing blamed “terrorists” for inflicting casualties. These “terrorist” as per the Junta are its armed opponents and a rival shadow National Unity government, a flagbearer of democracy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The Junta has faced several sanctions from many Western countries. Especially last week after the execution of four democracy activists it accused of "terror acts".<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>Min Aung Hlaing also focused on the economic deterioration of the country. "I think progress can be seen within six months," he said, citing the prospect of more jobs and a focus on farming.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The World Bank projects Myanmar's economy will grow only 3% this fiscal year following an 18% contraction last year.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>It also said that a return to pre-pandemic levels was unlikely in the near term for Myanmar.&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

(WIth inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Myanmar’s military government announced on Monday an extension of a state of emergency for another six months until Feb. 1, 2023, saying the country needed more time to restore stability and do the spadework for fresh elections.

Myanmar’s military government announced on Monday an extension of a state of emergency for another six months until Feb. 1, 2023, saying the country needed more time to restore stability and do the spadework for fresh elections. The head of Myanmar's military Junta stated instability as the reason for stalling efforts to implement a peace plan agreed with other Southeast Asian countries as he extended the emergency rule. In February 2021, the Junta first declared a state of emergency after seizing power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup. Since then, Myanmar has been in chaos, with rampant conflicts after the army pulverised peaceful protests in towns and cities. The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a political and economic bloc to promote intergovernmental cooperation amongst its member nations, agreed a five-point "consensus" to end hostilities last year. The plan that never saw the light of day was a roadmap to end the violence through dialogue. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing said in a speech aired on state media that Myanmar had been striving to overcome the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic while facing internal chaos. "So, it was difficult to implement the ASEAN consensus due to the lack of stability," said Min Aung Hlaing, adding that only when the situation was "normal" could progress be made. Western governments condemned the coup and the detention on various charges of Nobel laureate Suu Kyi and numerous members of her party and supporters. Some members of ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a member and which has a tradition of non-interference in each other's internal affairs, also criticised the generals. While the Junta has failed to implement the ASEAN plan, it has never rejected it. "Our country is an ASEAN state so we value the conventions of ASEAN," Min Aung Hlaing said. The six-month logic The Junta said it had to seize power last year because of voting fraud in a November 2020 general election that Suu Kyi's party easily won. Election monitoring groups found no evidence of mass fraud. The military has guaranteed new elections in August 2023 though opponents do not believe it would be free and fair. According to the Assistance Association for political prisoners, a human rights organisation, Security forces have already killed more than 2,100 people since the coup. The Junta on the other hand has said that the numbers were being overplayed. The true picture of the violence has become murky since lightly armed People's Defence Forces have sprung up to take on the army. Their operations take place in more remote areas where ethnic minority insurgents are also fighting the military. In his speech, Min Aung Hlaing blamed “terrorists” for inflicting casualties. These “terrorist” as per the Junta are its armed opponents and a rival shadow National Unity government, a flagbearer of democracy. The Junta has faced several sanctions from many Western countries. Especially last week after the execution of four democracy activists it accused of "terror acts". Min Aung Hlaing also focused on the economic deterioration of the country. "I think progress can be seen within six months," he said, citing the prospect of more jobs and a focus on farming. The World Bank projects Myanmar's economy will grow only 3% this fiscal year following an 18% contraction last year. It also said that a return to pre-pandemic levels was unlikely in the near term for Myanmar. (WIth inputs from agencies)

Myanmar Junta extends state of emergency

The military Junta in Myanmar was first jailing its critics now it is executing them. Last Saturday, at least four political prisoners were hanged to death in Myanmar, the executions have triggered criticism from ASEAN countries to America to United Nations, they're all condemning the junta's actions asking the world to boycott them completely.

Military Junta's executions met with condemnation from ASEAN, US and UN

The head of a regional coalition overseeing diplomatic attempts to end the post-coup turmoil called Myanmar's execution of four detainees, including a former member of Aung San Suu Kyi's party, "highly reprehensible." The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is presently headed by Cambodia, was "extremely troubled and deeply saddened" by the killings, which were Myanmar's first in decades.

It accused the junta in a statement released on Tuesday of a "gross lack of will" to cooperate with ASEAN's initiatives to promote communication between the military and its opponents. Additionally, it was highlighted in the announcement that the executions had occurred "despite the personal appeal" of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to halt the process. The 10-nation group, of which Myanmar is a member, has taken the lead in diplomatic efforts to put an end to the upheaval caused by the putsch last year.

It came to a "Five-Point Consensus" with the junta in April 2021, which asks for an end to violence and "constructive dialogue." However, fighting has persisted, with anti-junta organisations frequently battling with the military, which is accused of setting villages on fire. Critics assert that ASEAN's divisions, which have long been criticised as a toothless talking shop, have made efforts to settle the situation more difficult.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/economic-revival-hope-after-russia-ukraine-grain-deal-crashes-as-russia-cuts-gas-supply-to-europe-500669">Economic revival hope fails after Russia-Ukraine grain deal crashes as Russia cuts gas supply to Europe</a>

According to Cambodian state media, the foreign minister appointed by the junta in Myanmar has not received an invitation to the bloc's foreign ministers conference the next week. Hun Sen, the leader of Cambodia, is the only foreign head of state to have visited Myanmar since the coup, maintaining its isolation on the global stage. According to a local monitoring organisation, the military's crackdown on opposition has resulted in the deaths of more than 2,100 people since Myanmar's coup.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The head of a regional coalition overseeing diplomatic attempts to end the post-coup turmoil called Myanmar's execution of four detainees, including a former member of Aung San Suu Kyi's party, "highly reprehensible.

The head of a regional coalition overseeing diplomatic attempts to end the post-coup turmoil called Myanmar's execution of four detainees, including a former member of Aung San Suu Kyi's party, "highly reprehensible." The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is presently headed by Cambodia, was "extremely troubled and deeply saddened" by the killings, which were Myanmar's first in decades. It accused the junta in a statement released on Tuesday of a "gross lack of will" to cooperate with ASEAN's initiatives to promote communication between the military and its opponents. Additionally, it was highlighted in the announcement that the executions had occurred "despite the personal appeal" of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen to halt the process. The 10-nation group, of which Myanmar is a member, has taken the lead in diplomatic efforts to put an end to the upheaval caused by the putsch last year. It came to a "Five-Point Consensus" with the junta in April 2021, which asks for an end to violence and "constructive dialogue." However, fighting has persisted, with anti-junta organisations frequently battling with the military, which is accused of setting villages on fire. Critics assert that ASEAN's divisions, which have long been criticised as a toothless talking shop, have made efforts to settle the situation more difficult. Also Read: Economic revival hope fails after Russia-Ukraine grain deal crashes as Russia cuts gas supply to Europe According to Cambodian state media, the foreign minister appointed by the junta in Myanmar has not received an invitation to the bloc's foreign ministers conference the next week. Hun Sen, the leader of Cambodia, is the only foreign head of state to have visited Myanmar since the coup, maintaining its isolation on the global stage. According to a local monitoring organisation, the military's crackdown on opposition has resulted in the deaths of more than 2,100 people since Myanmar's coup. (with inputs from agencies)

ASEAN terms Myanmar junta executions 'highly reprehensible', says 'saddened' by killings

India is hosting the meeting of foreign ministers of association of southeast Asian nations otherwise known as ASEAN marking three decades of the country's dialogue relationship and also the 10th anniversary of strategic partnership with the 10 nation group.

ASEAN Meet: India hosts 2-day special ASEAN-Foreign ministers meet

India hosted the meeting of foreign ministers of association of Southeast Asian nations or ASEAN, marking the three decades of the country's dialogue relation and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership with the 10 nation group.

India hosts 2-day special foreign ministers meet, marks 30 years of India-ASEAN dialogue

India is hosting the meeting of foreign ministers of association of southeast Asian nations otherwise known as ASEAN marking three decades of the country's dialogue relationship.

ASEAN Meet: 12th edition of Delhi Dialogue to last for two days

The United States hosted a special ASEAN Summit amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, ASEAN leaders refrained from criticising Russia.

The US hosts ASEAN Summit amid Ukraine crisis

The southeast Asia is back in focus for Washington for a special ASEAN summit and the American President Biden is hosting the leaders from the association of the Southeast Asian nations.

Joe Biden hosts ASEAN leaders; pledges to support clean energy, maritime security

A Southeast Asian&nbsp;envoy&nbsp;said on Wednesday he had&nbsp;urged&nbsp;Myanmar's ruling&nbsp;military&nbsp;to show restraint during offensives and was told by the junta leader there would be no&nbsp;access&nbsp;to ousted leader Aung San&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;while her trial was ongoing.

Prak Sokhonn, special&nbsp;envoy&nbsp;for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), said he sought the release of prisoners including Australian economist Sean Turnell, and junta boss Min Aung Hlaing told him he would consider a request to see&nbsp;Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;and other detainees in future.

Suu&nbsp;Kyi&nbsp;was overthrown by the&nbsp;military&nbsp;in a coup last year that sparked chaos and bloodshed in the country after a decade of tentative democratic reform.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-in-bangladesh-cheer-us-decision-on-myanmar-genocide-465074">Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide'</a>

The Nobel laureate is on trial for more than a dozen offences including violating a state secrets act and multiple counts of corruption. She has been found guilty of several crimes already, but has rejected all charges.

Prak Sokhonn said he understood that critics viewed his trip to&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;this week as legitimising the junta. But he added he sees the two-day visit as a positive step towards resolving the crisis, which he said could not be done during Cambodia's ASEAN chairmanship this year.

"The&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;issue is complicated, it needs a long time to solve, we can't solve it during one chairmanship or the current chairmanship," he told reporters on his return to Cambodia.

"I know of various levels of expectations on the visit, I also know of people who want to see a ceasefire and me meeting all involved parties, and the return to normalcy of democracy," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-categorically-rejects-us-allegation-of-rohingya-genocide-464692">Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide</a>

"I understand reasons behind criticism, they don't want me being giving legitimacy to the state councilors," he said, referring to the junta.

Prak Sokhonn's trip has frustrated opponents to&nbsp;Myanmar's junta because it was centred largely on the generals, with most meetings with other parties cancelled.

ASEAN&nbsp;has barred the generals&nbsp;from&nbsp;attending its summits until they see progress in a five-point "consensus" agreed last year to end the violence.

The United Nations last week said the army had committed war crimes and crimes against humanity and was deliberately targeting civilians. The&nbsp;military&nbsp;has yet to respond.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi faces new charge amid fresh violence

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-leader-aung-san-suu-kyi-faces-new-charge-amid-fresh-violence-450379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A Southeast Asian envoy said on Wednesday he had urged Myanmar's ruling military to show restraint during offensives and was told by the junta leader there would be no access to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi while her trial was ongoing.

A Southeast Asian envoy said on Wednesday he had urged Myanmar's ruling military to show restraint during offensives and was told by the junta leader there would be no access to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi while her trial was ongoing. Prak Sokhonn, special envoy for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), said he sought the release of prisoners including Australian economist Sean Turnell, and junta boss Min Aung Hlaing told him he would consider a request to see Suu Kyi and other detainees in future. Suu Kyi was overthrown by the military in a coup last year that sparked chaos and bloodshed in the country after a decade of tentative democratic reform. Also read | Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide' The Nobel laureate is on trial for more than a dozen offences including violating a state secrets act and multiple counts of corruption. She has been found guilty of several crimes already, but has rejected all charges. Prak Sokhonn said he understood that critics viewed his trip to Myanmar this week as legitimising the junta. But he added he sees the two-day visit as a positive step towards resolving the crisis, which he said could not be done during Cambodia's ASEAN chairmanship this year. "The Myanmar issue is complicated, it needs a long time to solve, we can't solve it during one chairmanship or the current chairmanship," he told reporters on his return to Cambodia. "I know of various levels of expectations on the visit, I also know of people who want to see a ceasefire and me meeting all involved parties, and the return to normalcy of democracy," he said. Also read | Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide "I understand reasons behind criticism, they don't want me being giving legitimacy to the state councilors," he said, referring to the junta. Prak Sokhonn's trip has frustrated opponents to Myanmar's junta because it was centred largely on the generals, with most meetings with other parties cancelled. ASEAN has barred the generals from attending its summits until they see progress in a five-point "consensus" agreed last year to end the violence. The United Nations last week said the army had committed war crimes and crimes against humanity and was deliberately targeting civilians. The military has yet to respond. Watch | Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi faces new charge amid fresh violence

ASEAN envoy says urged restraint from Myanmar military, discussed Aung San Suu Kyi access

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