ASEAN Summit Kicks Off in Manila with New Logo and Flag Unveiling
The ASEAN Summit in Manila focuses on regional cooperation and unveils a new logo and flag following Timor-Lestes membership.
Manila, November 15 (Daily Kiran) : The 49th ASEAN Summit commenced in Manila, Philippines, on November 15, focusing on regional collaboration, digital economy, disaster management, and community development. This year’s summit holds special significance as it marks the formal changes to the ASEAN Charter and logo following Timor-Leste’s admission as the organization’s 11th member.
Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is also the ASEAN chair for 2026, presided over the opening ceremony. Leaders, foreign ministers, and invited representatives from ASEAN countries attended the event, along with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn.
Discussions at the summit emphasize advancing the ASEAN community, addressing regional and international developments, and fostering a robust, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered Southeast Asian community. A key highlight was the formal unveiling of the new ASEAN logo and flag, marking the first amendment since the adoption of the ASEAN Charter in 2007. Changes were made under the Cebu Protocol, granting institutional and legal recognition of Timor-Leste’s membership.
The summit will also present documents related to the Digital Economy Framework Agreement. ASEAN leaders plan to engage with representatives from parliaments, youth, and the business community to gather insights on the organization’s priorities and future direction.
During the opening ceremony, the ASEAN Prize 2026 was awarded to Myanmar’s Hla Hla Aung for her contributions to disaster management and enhancing regional resilience. President Marcos Jr. presented the award, recognizing Aung’s long-standing efforts to connect scientific research with policy initiatives and community empowerment, significantly improving disaster awareness and preparedness in the region.
The summit is also crucial for India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to participate. ASEAN plays a central role in India’s Act East policy, focusing on trade, connectivity, maritime security, digital economy, and strategic cooperation in Southeast Asia.
