Dr. Kao Kim Hourn urged ASEAN and the Republic of Korea to translate long-term regional strategies into practical initiatives that strengthen connectivity and advance the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. He also welcomed deeper ASEAN-ROK economic cooperation through the ongoing upgrade of the free trade agreement.
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, delivered the keynote address at the 2026 ASEAN-ROK Regional Connectivity Forum in Jakarta, Indonesia, highlighting the importance of turning regional aspirations into tangible actions. Speaking before policymakers and stakeholders, he stressed that the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan must be transformed into concrete projects and firm commitments that deliver meaningful outcomes for the region.
In his keynote speech, Dr. Kao emphasised that stronger ASEAN-Republic of Korea (ROK) connectivity should also support the practical implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). He noted that enhanced cooperation in connectivity, sustainability and regional development would contribute to a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific while reinforcing ASEAN’s central role in regional architecture.
Dr. Kao also commended the Republic of Korea for its continued commitment to advancing ASEAN connectivity initiatives. He highlighted ongoing cooperation in key areas, including open data, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), as well as smart and sustainable urban development. These initiatives, he noted, demonstrate the growing depth of the ASEAN-ROK partnership and its shared commitment to sustainable growth and innovation.
The Secretary-General further welcomed the ongoing upgrade of the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Area (AKFTA) Agreement, describing it as an important step towards strengthening regional economic integration and expanding trade and investment opportunities. He expressed confidence that a modernised agreement would further enhance economic resilience and support long-term prosperity for both ASEAN Member States and the Republic of Korea.
The 2026 ASEAN-ROK Regional Connectivity Forum was co-hosted by the Mission of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN and the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP), with support from the Permanent Mission of Thailand to ASEAN in its role as the Country Coordinator for ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Relations. The forum served as a platform for dialogue on advancing regional connectivity and deepening strategic cooperation between ASEAN and the Republic of Korea.
Source: ASEAN
