Bangladesh has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its dialogue partners to strengthen regional cooperation in addressing emerging and transnational security challenges.

Speaking at the commemorative ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) in Manila, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman stressed the importance of practical and coordinated initiatives to enhance resilience against pandemics, climate-induced disasters, cyber threats and supply chain disruptions, according to BSS.

He said joint early-warning systems, shared risk assessments and regional crisis-response mechanisms would be essential for improving collective preparedness and ensuring a more resilient region in the face of evolving global challenges.

The foreign minister also highlighted the growing risks posed by AI-enabled cybercrime, as well as the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation through social media, calling for greater regional collaboration to tackle these emerging threats.

The Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, signed in 1976, provides the foundation for peaceful relations among countries in Southeast Asia by promoting principles such as mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs. Bangladesh joined the treaty in 2007, becoming one of the first South Asian countries to formally align itself with ASEAN's normative framework.

On the sidelines of the anniversary events, Dr Khalilur held separate bilateral meetings with the foreign ministers of Chile, the Netherlands and the Philippines, along with Qatar's State Minister for Foreign Affairs. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in trade and investment, energy security, water-resource management, legal migration and the circular economy.

Dr Khalilur is in the Philippine capital to participate in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Foreign Ministers' Meeting and the commemorative events celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.

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