Speaking after a special virtual meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers, Mr Sihasak said the talks focused on both the direct and indirect impacts the Middle East conflict could have on Southeast Asia, as well as possible collective responses, reports the Bangkok Post.
The meeting, initiated by Thailand and chaired by the Philippines, the current ASEAN chair, reviewed the geopolitical implications of the war in the Middle East and the risks it poses to ASEAN’s economic stability.
Ministers during the meeting expressed concern the conflict, now in its third week, reflects a broader erosion of the international rules-based order and could become prolonged.
They reaffirmed ASEAN’s long-standing position on peace, calling on all parties to resolve disputes through peaceful means and to prioritise the protection of civilians.
Beyond potential economic pressures, such as inflation and food supply disruptions, the ministers warned the war could affect energy supplies in Southeast Asia and the welfare of ASEAN nationals in the Middle East.
To prepare for possible supply disruptions, ASEAN members discussed the potential use of the Asean Petroleum Security Agreement, a mechanism that allows member states to voluntarily supply petroleum to neighbours facing temporary shortages should they need help.
Mr Sihasak said the mechanism has never been activated during a major crisis but is now being reviewed as part of contingency planning. While several ASEAN countries, including Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia, produce petroleum, most of the output is used domestically.
Nonetheless, Mr Sihasak said the principle of regional solidarity remains important should shortages arise.
Ministers also discussed strengthening long-term regional energy cooperation, including power grid projects linking Laos with Singapore, as well as a proposed electricity interconnection between Brunei and the Philippines.