Will Asean demand freedom of navigation in Hormuz?

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Asean Foreign Ministers to Advocate for Freedom of Navigation in the Strait of Hormuz

Foreign ministers from Southeast Asian nations are set to call for freedom of navigation in international straits, including the Strait of Hormuz, as they conclude their meetings in Manila. A draft statement emerging from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) gathering indicates a strong stance on maintaining open maritime passages, a principle underscored by the economic repercussions of the ongoing Middle East conflict. The US Secretary of State, who also attended the meetings, reinforced this concern by warning that Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz would establish a “dangerous precedent.”
Increased Emphasis on Straits Navigation

The draft communique includes previously unutilised language specifically addressing "freedom of navigation in and overflight above straits." This is coupled with a separate call for "unimpeded" passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This particular emphasis highlights the growing importance of these vital waterways, especially in light of recent disruptions. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz following strikes on Iran has led to significant energy shortages and price increases across the region, prompting measures such as the declaration of a national emergency in the Philippines, a nation heavily reliant on imports.
Regional Maritime Significance and Concerns

The call for freedom of navigation is particularly relevant as Southeast Asia itself hosts two of the world's busiest shipping routes: the Strait of Malacca and the Strait of Singapore. The region's vulnerability to disruptions in key maritime arteries is a significant concern for its member states. While the draft statement alludes to potential energy cooperation among Asean nations, no concrete progress on existing initiatives, such as a regional energy grid or a fuel-sharing scheme, has been disclosed.
South China Sea Tensions and Code of Conduct Negotiations

The Asean meetings commenced amidst heightened tensions, following recent clashes between China and the Philippines in the disputed South China Sea. Despite these bilateral issues, China's ambassador to Manila conveyed that efforts to establish a Code of Conduct for the South China Sea would proceed unaffected. Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan indicated optimism that the Code of Conduct agreement could be finalised by the Asean leaders' meeting in November. However, it is understood that the Code of Conduct will focus on "rules of engagement" for the waterway and will not address bilateral territorial disputes.

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Will Asean demand freedom of navigation in Hormuz?

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