Cebu city: His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, expressed his support for the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 during the Plenary Session of the 48th ASEAN Summit at the Mactan Expo in Cebu City, Republic of the Philippines. As part of his address, His Majesty emphasized the need for practical cooperation to strengthen resilience in key areas, aiming for a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN.
According to Radio Television Brunei, His Majesty highlighted ongoing efforts to implement the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, expand the ASEAN Power Grid, and advance the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline. He encouraged exploration of energy security arrangements with Dialogue Partners and drew attention to lessons from successful regional mechanisms. His Majesty also stressed the importance of addressing energy-food linkages to ensure food security in the face of rising fuel prices, which impact production, transport, fertilizers, and food costs across the region.
His Majesty advocated for strengthening emergency reserves like the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR), improving information-sharing, boosting productivity, and enhancing technology cooperation to establish stronger safety nets for the region's people. The Sultan's remarks were part of a broader discussion during the summit aimed at tackling critical issues facing the ASEAN community.
His Majesty attended the Opening Ceremony of the 48th ASEAN Summit, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen. His arrival was warmly welcomed by His Excellency Ferdinand R Marcos Jr, President of the Republic of the Philippines, along with First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.
The ceremony began with the ASEAN anthem, 'The ASEAN Way,' followed by welcoming remarks from President Marcos, who is serving as the Chairman of ASEAN this year. He extended his welcome to all leaders and delegates attending the summit in Cebu City, marking the commencement of the summit's significant discussions and deliberations.