Can ASEAN Stay United In A Fractured World? Trade, Energy & AI In Focus | ASEAN Conference 2026

At the ASEAN Conference 2026, Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Philippine Trade and Industry Minister Cristina Aldeguer-Roque emphasises that ASEAN’s strength lies in deeper regional integration, practical cooperation and the trust built through responding collectively to past crises. They highlighted progress on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) and the potential for an ASEAN Green Economy Agreement. Energy security is a key focus. Roque outlines the Philippines’ efforts to attract renewable-energy investment, while Gan explains Singapore’s strategy of diversifying energy sources and strengthening regional supply chains. DPM Gan outlines Singapore's AI strategy and emphasises the importance of collaboration among ASEAN countries on AI capabilities and applications. Both ministers stress the importance of free trade, supply-chain resilience and stronger engagement with global partners. They conclude that ASEAN’s future will depend not only on government agreements, but also on active participation from businesses in shaping a more connected and competitive region. 00:00 Introduction 02:19 DPM Gan's opening statement 08:14 Establishing digital trade in ASEAN 11:18 Future of investments in Philippines 12:50 Energy security & ASEAN power grid 19:41 ASEAN's green economy agreement 24:36 Impact of ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) 28:21 Developing ASEAN's AI capabilities 33:41 Highlights of Philippine's ASEAN Chairship 40:08 Final takeaways ========= ABOUT THE SHOW: As ASEAN navigates a more uncertain world, its leaders are deepening regional cooperation. In this special dialogue, Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Philippine Trade and Industry Minister Cristina Aldeguer-Roque discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead, from AI and digital trade to energy security. As geopolitical rivalry intensifies and technology reshapes economies, can ASEAN stay united, relevant and ready for the future? ================== #CNAInsider #Singapore #Philippines #SoutheastAsia #SEA #ASEAN #ASEANConference2026 For more, SUBSCRIBE to CNA INSIDER! https://cna.asia/insideryoutubesub Follow CNA INSIDER on: Instagram:   / cnainsider   Facebook:   / cnainsider   Website: https://cna.asia/cnainsider