RE: Why oh why11 May 2026 10:41
On May 8th, 2026, Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão attended the plenary session of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines, where he highlighted three priorities for the regional response: energy security and resilience, food security, and regional security and stability. The Summit, chaired by the Philippines and held under the theme “Charting Our Future, Together”, brought together the Heads of State and Government of the Member States.
In his remarks, the Head of the Government stated that geopolitical tensions continue to affect the global economy, with energy and food systems being affected by conflicts, climate change, and international instability.
“Geopolitical tensions are continually shaping the global economy. Energy and food systems are under severe strain from conflicts, climate change, and international instability. These developments show that economic security, food security, and strategic stability are deeply intertwined and require collective action,” said the Prime Minister.
On energy security, Xanana Gusmão warned of the effects of fuel price volatility, supply chain disruptions, and pressure on public finances, particularly in countries most dependent on fuel imports.
In this context, he argued that ASEAN should continue to diversify its sources of supply, invest in resilient infrastructure, and deepen practical cooperation, particularly through the ASEAN Oil Security Agreement and the ASEAN Energy Network.
“Our shared goal is to build a safer, more diversified, and more sustainable energy system for our region,” he said.