The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Tokyo, in collaboration with the ASEAN-Japan Centre, invites everyone to join the symposium “ASEAN Centrality, the Future of ASEAN, and Prospects for ASEAN-Japan Relations: A Conversation.”
Friday, 28 March 2025
14:00-15:30 GMT9 | 13:00-14:30 GMT8 | 12:00-13:30 GMT7
Hybrid (ASEAN-Japan Center Hall and Zoom)
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/2jmsdE7dBP1disr36
Zoom Link: To Follow
Language: English
Background
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has long positioned itself as a key player in regional and global affairs, emphasizing the importance of ASEAN Centrality in fostering cooperation and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. As geopolitical dynamics shift and new challenges emerge, the future of ASEAN and its role within the broader international context is a subject of critical significance. Japan, as a longstanding dialogue partner of ASEAN, plays an essential role in shaping the future of this relationship and enhancing collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
Introduction
The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Tokyo, in collaboration with the ASEAN-Japan Centre, presents an intimate dialogue and discussion with Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso on ASEAN Centrality, the Future of ASEAN, and Prospects for ASEAN-Japan Relations. This symposium aims to provide in-depth insights into ASEAN’s evolving direction, its comprehensive strategic partnership with Japan, and the pivotal role of ASEAN Centrality in addressing regional and global challenges.
A key highlight of the discussion is the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, a roadmap crafted by the ASEAN High-Level Task Force (HLTF), which is set to be launched by ASEAN Leaders in May 2025. Ambassador Buensuceso, the Eminent Person of the Philippines to the HLTF, serves as its Co-Chair alongside Malaysia.
Join us as we explore ASEAN’s trajectory over the next two decades—the challenges it faces, the megatrends shaping its future, and the opportunities and aspirations that will define its engagement with external partners, including Japan. As ASEAN strengthens its role as a regional and global player, Japan is presented with numerous opportunities to align with this vision and contribute to building a peaceful, secure, prosperous, and inclusive ASEAN Community.
University students and scholars who are interested in the subject are invited to attend.
Program Details
| 14:00 – 14:03 | Introduction |
| 14:04 – 14:09 | Opening Remarks H.E. Mylene J. Garcia-Albano Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines |
| 14:10 – 14:12 | Introduction of H.E. Elizabeth P. Buensuceso |
| 14:13 – 14:43 | Keynote Address Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso Philippines’ Eminent Person to the High-Level Task Force On ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision |
| 14:44 – 14:45 | Introduction of Dr. Mie Oba (Commentator) Professor, Kanagawa University |
| 14:45 – 15:05 | Q&A Session between Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso and Dr. Mie Oba |
| 15:06 – 15:13 | Q&A from Audience |
| 15:14 – 15:24 | Book Turnover “ASEAN Centrality: An Autoethnographic Account by a Philippine Diplomat” by Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso Group Photo |
| 15:25 – 15:30 | Closing Remarks Kunihiko Hirabayashi, MD, PhD Secretary General of the ASEAN-Japan Centre |
