Philippines hosts ASEAN connectivity conference to advance implementation of new strategic plan.
The Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) held the High-Level Conference on ASEAN Connectivity in Pasay City under the theme “From Strategy to Delivery: Implementing the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan 2026-2035”. The conference provided a platform for substantive discussions on cross-sectoral alignment under the new ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan (ACSP) and its implementation.
The High-Level Conference on ASEAN Connectivity served as a strategic, policy-oriented and decision-shaping platform for stakeholders engaged in advancing the ASEAN Connectivity agenda. The event took place in the first year of implementation of the ACSP 2026-2035, with discussions focused on supporting alignment under the new strategic framework.
The conference was opened by Mr Tetsuya Watanabe, President of ERIA. Keynote remarks were delivered by H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, and Hon. Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan, Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development of the Philippines.
Mr. Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), delivered a Special Address on mobilising finance and partnerships for ASEAN’s future. His address formed part of the conference’s focus on the role of financing and partnerships in supporting the implementation of the ASEAN Connectivity agenda.
The conference provided an opportunity for participating stakeholders to discuss cross-sectoral alignment in implementing the ACSP 2026-2035. By focusing on the transition “From Strategy to Delivery”, the event addressed the practical implementation of the new connectivity framework during its first year.
The High-Level Conference on ASEAN Connectivity therefore served as a forum for policy discussions and engagement on the implementation of the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan 2026-2035. Organised by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and ERIA, the conference placed implementation, cross-sectoral alignment, finance and partnerships among the key areas of discussion.
Source: ASEAN
