Pasay: Ukraine is actively pursuing official dialogue partner status with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) by the conclusion of the Philippines' chairship in 2026, Ukrainian Ambassador to the Philippines Yuliia Fediv announced on Friday. The ambassador emphasized Ukraine's interest in enhancing its presence and strengthening cooperation with ASEAN member states, including the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Fediv highlighted Ukraine's strategic approach to fostering relations with ASEAN during her speech at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) Ambassador's Lecture Series held in Pasay. She noted that Ukraine has developed a specific strategy for its relationship with ASEAN, aiming to increase its engagement and presence in the region.

In 2022, Ukraine demonstrated its commitment to formalizing its ties with ASEAN by signing the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC). Following this, Ukraine submitted an application to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue partner. Ambassador Fediv expressed hope for Ukraine to achieve this strategic dialogue partnership with ASEAN by the end of the year, with the support of the Philippines' leadership.

Last year, Malaysia indicated that ASEAN would be reviewing Ukraine's application, with senior officials set to deliberate on the matter. In a recent communication, Dominic Xavier Imperial, the Foreign Affairs spokesperson for ASEAN, confirmed via a text message to the Philippine News Agency that the application remains under consideration by ASEAN Member States.

Kyiv's strategy for engaging with ASEAN includes developing effective cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, disaster management, and culture, especially significant amidst Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia. On Monday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro extended an invitation to Ukraine to participate in this year's major ASEAN meetings during a phone conversation with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.