Marcos Highlights 'Mutual Trust' at 50th ASEAN Treaty Anniversary

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday underscored the importance of mutual trust and willingness to seek common ground, as he welcomed visiting foreign ministers at Malacañang for the conclusion of the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia. “The treaty was signed around the common table, where the leaders of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand chose to sit together at a time of immense global rivalries and tensions. That table became more than just the setting of a historic ceremony. It became the symbol of a region choosing cooperation over confrontation,” the President said in his speech. It became the center of Southeast Asian diplomacy, where perpetual peace, everlasting amity and cooperation were planted, Marcos added. “It was a statement of confidence in our region’s future, a conviction that despite our differences, Southeast Asia could build its security through mutual respect and cooperation,” the President said. The commemorative stamp marking the 50th anniversary of the treaty was also unveiled yesterday. Earlier, Sweden, Poland, Romania and Lithuania formally acceded the TAC, reaffirming their commitment to the principles of peace, dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation that have guided the ASEAN for five decades. The four European countries signed their respective Instruments of Accession during a ceremony held following the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings in Manila. The TAC serves as ASEAN’s code of conduct, anchored on respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes and cooperation.