ASEAN Summit begins in Manila with focus on digital economy and regional security

The 49th ASEAN Summit and related meetings commenced in Manila, Philippines, on November 15, 2026, to address regional connectivity and economic cooperation. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is serving as the chair for the summit, which is scheduled to run through November 17, 2026. The gathering brings together at least 19 world leaders and heads of international institutions to discuss critical regional issues.

Regional leaders arrive in Manila

Several heads of state arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on November 14, 2026, ahead of the scheduled proceedings. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supachai Suranart, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yotsachanat Wongswasdi. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrived on the night of November 14, 2026, after departing from Palu, Central Sulawesi. According to the Presidential Press Bureau of Indonesia, the presence of President Prabowo Subianto demonstrates the commitment of Indonesia to playing an active role in strengthening regional cooperation.

President Prabowo Subianto was welcomed by Philippine Minister of Education Sonny Angara, Indonesian Chargé d'affaires Victorina Hesti Dewayani, and Indonesian Defense Attaché Colonel Meldi. Other leaders arriving on November 14, 2026, include Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Lao Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.

Economic and security agendas

The summit agenda includes significant negotiations regarding the South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC) and the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar. On November 14, 2026, ASEAN ministers representing 11 member states signed the Digital Economy Framework Agreement. This agreement is part of a broader effort to enhance regional economic integration.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Manila on the evening of November 14, 2026, and is scheduled to attend the 16th ASEAN–United Nations Summit on November 16. Additionally, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend a special ASEAN-US summit on November 17, 2026. The summit is expected to result in the adoption or issuance of approximately 100 outcome documents.

Diplomatic engagements and plenary sessions

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva arrived on November 13, 2026, for a state visit and is scheduled to attend the plenary session on November 15. Brazil is currently an ASEAN sectoral dialogue partner seeking full dialogue partner status. The summit will also feature the 6th ASEAN–Australia Summit and the 21st East Asia Summit.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the summit is a key opportunity for Thailand to help shape ASEAN cooperation and strengthen ties with members and dialogue partners regarding economic strength, regional connectivity, and peace.

Glossary

• ASEAN Summit — The ASEAN Summit is a biannual meeting held by the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It addresses the economic, political, security, and socio-cultural development of Southeast Asian countries.
• East Asia Summit — The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a pan-Asia forum held annually by the leaders of 16 countries in the East Asian region. Its meetings are held after annual ASEAN leaders' meetings.
• Ninoy Aquino International Airport — Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the main international airport serving Metro Manila in the Philippines. It serves as a main gateway for travelers to the Philippines and acts as a hub for various airlines.
• ASEAN–United Nations Summit — The ASEAN–United Nations Summit is a meeting where ASEAN leaders and the UN Secretary-General discuss issues regarding peace and security.