Kazan: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Russia by exploring opportunities in emerging sectors with considerable untapped potential. In an interview with Russia Today following the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, Marcos noted that while the partnership has developed over three decades, it has not yet achieved its full potential.
According to Philippines News Agency, the partnership between the ASEAN regional bloc and Moscow has seen some progress, but Marcos acknowledged that the growth rate has not been particularly high. Exceptions exist within certain ASEAN member states that have advanced further in cooperation with Russia compared to others.
Marcos identified emerging areas such as advanced technology, artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, and power generation as key sectors for potential collaboration. He recognized Russia's growing influence in these fields, highlighting the new opportunities for cooperation between ASEAN and its external partners.
Marcos remarked on the untapped potential in these emerging sectors, which were not part of traditional economic relations in the past. He noted that ASEAN is rapidly evolving by diversifying its partnerships beyond conventional alignments.
He described the current phase of ASEAN-Philippine relations as a 'new day', characterized by expanding dialogue and shifting priorities, notably in science- and technology-driven sectors. Marcos reflected on the evolving global dynamics, stating that ASEAN is adapting quickly and redefining its global partnerships.
The ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit celebrated over 35 years of dialogue relations and set the stage for deeper cooperation in the future. The summit focused on delivering tangible benefits to the people of ASEAN and Russia, resulting in the adoption of significant outcome documents. These include the Kazan Declaration 2026, the ASEAN-Russia Comprehensive Plan of Action for 2026-2030, and joint documents advancing cooperation in culture and energy.
