ASEAN launches new framework to narrow development gaps and advance regional integration.
Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the ASEAN Economic Community, H.E. Satvinder Singh, delivered remarks at the Launching Ceremony of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan V (2026–2030) and its Implementation Plan at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The ceremony introduced the new five-year framework, which aims to support inclusive regional integration and narrow development gaps among ASEAN Member States.
The event was attended by representatives from ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Partners, ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, international and philanthropic organisations, the private sector, as well as IAI National Coordinators and Focal Points. Participants joined both in person and online to develop a shared understanding of the IAI Work Plan V and its Implementation Plan and to support their effective implementation.
H.E. Ambassador Noy Choumneanh, Permanent Representative of Cambodia to ASEAN, delivered the opening remarks in his capacity as Chair of the IAI Task Force. The ceremony also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially launch the IAI Work Plan V (2026–2030) and its Implementation Plan.
The new IAI Work Plan covers the period from 2026 to 2030 and provides a strategic framework for addressing development gaps within ASEAN. It is structured around six Strategic Areas and three cross-cutting mechanisms, providing the framework for cooperation and activities under the Initiative for ASEAN Integration.
The accompanying Implementation Plan provides a roadmap for translating the priorities of the Work Plan into concrete actions and initiatives during the five-year period. It is intended to guide implementation and support coordination among the participating ASEAN stakeholders.
The launch marked the commencement of a new phase of cooperation under the IAI framework, with ASEAN Member States, partners, sectoral bodies, organisations, the private sector and designated national coordinators and focal points participating in its implementation.
The IAI Work Plan V (2026–2030) and its Implementation Plan will guide ASEAN’s efforts to advance inclusive regional integration and narrow development gaps through coordinated actions and initiatives during the coming five years.
Source: ASEAN
