Singapore PM Calls for Upholding International Order at ASEAN-Russia Summit in Kazan

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Thursday (June 18) attended the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, Russia, where he emphasized the importance of upholding international law and a rules-based global order to ensure peace and prosperity for all nations, regardless of size. The summit marked 35 years of ASEAN-Russia relations and 30 years of dialogue partnership, co-chaired by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Russian President Vladimir Putin. All ASEAN member states were represented.

Speaking at the summit, Wong highlighted that ASEAN's dual priorities of deepening regional integration and expanding external partnerships are even more critical in the current volatile geopolitical landscape. He stated that as the world moves toward a more multipolar order, ASEAN's key interest lies in keeping the region open and inclusive while maintaining strategic autonomy to shape its own destiny. "ASEAN wants to actively engage with all major powers and dialogue partners, and we are pleased to interact with Russia on this occasion," he said.

Singapore is the only ASEAN country that imposed sanctions on Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Wong reiterated that Singapore's stance is not about taking sides but is based on a consistent commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. He expressed support for diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire and called for a just, lasting, and stable peace in line with international law and the UN Charter. He also welcomed recent developments in the Middle East, particularly the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, hoping it could pave the way for a permanent end to conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The summit adopted several outcome documents, including the Kazan Declaration, which sets the direction for future cooperation in key areas such as energy and food security, transportation and logistics, agriculture, digitalization, technology and artificial intelligence, tourism, and creative industries. A Joint Statement on Cultural Cooperation was also issued, calling for deeper people-to-people ties and cultural exchanges, along with the ASEAN-Russia Comprehensive Plan of Action (2026-2030) to guide practical cooperation over the next five years.

Wong welcomed Russia's support for ASEAN centrality and encouraged continued Russian participation in ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the ASEAN Regional Forum and the East Asia Summit. He concluded his visit to Russia and is transiting through Istanbul, Turkey, for a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.