Finance ministers and central bank governors from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) reaffirmed the region’s economic resilience despite rising global risks and uncertainty.
At the 13th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting held on April 10, 2026, officials highlighted the need to stay alert against challenges such as volatile capital flows, climate-related shocks, and growing geopolitical tensions.
Eli M. Remolona Jr. said ASEAN’s strength lies in cooperation, noting that working together gives the region an advantage in a fragmented global environment. Frederick D. Go added that unity among member states sends a strong signal of resilience to the rest of the world.
Leaders endorsed key initiatives aligned with the 2026 theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together.” These include efforts to deepen capital markets, expand regional payment systems, and improve financial health. They also committed to closer cooperation in sustainable finance, disaster risk financing, financial regulation, and digital innovation.
The meeting adopted the ASEAN Finance Sectoral Plan for 2026–2030, which prioritizes stronger financial systems and regional integration. Plans include completing technical standards under the ASEAN Taxonomy and launching a new action plan for capital markets.
Officials also called for greater private sector involvement in infrastructure, digital finance, and sustainability projects.
The group thanked the Philippines for hosting the meeting from April 7 to 10, and expressed support for Singapore as the next ASEAN chair in 2027, when the bloc marks its 60th anniversary.
