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An overview of the discussion session at the forum. (Photo: Do Quyen/VNA)

According to a VNA correspondent in Jakarta, on July 16, the 2026 ASEAN-RoK Regional Connectivity Forum was inaugurated with the attendance of policymakers, scholars, experts, and business representatives to discuss measures to enhance regional connectivity and economic resilience, and to discuss the future orientation of ASEAN-RoK relations, including the process of upgrading the ASEAN-RoK Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA).

Delivering the opening remarks, Ambassador, Head of the Mission of the RoK to ASEAN Lee Chul said the elevation of ASEAN-Republic of Korea relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) in 2024 had opened a new phase of cooperation between the two sides, extending collaboration to such areas as supply chain resilience, economic security, and future industries.

According to Lee Chul, the RoK would continue accompanying ASEAN to promote sustainable connectivity and growth, and the two sides could contribute to a more connected, resilient, inclusive and sustainable region, thereby maintaining an open, stable and mutually beneficial environment.

He also stressed that upgrading the AKFTA was necessary to respond to the global economy’s fluctuations and expand cooperation in emerging fields, including the digital economy, science and technology, innovation, supply chains, and future industries.

Secretary-General of ASEAN Kao Kim Hourn said, in the context of the global economy’s fluctuations, strengthening supply chain resilience and promoting the AKFTA upgrade were urgent tasks for ASEAN and the RoK.

This is an opportunity for both sides to jointly shape an open, inclusive, rules-based and highly resilient region.

Kao Kim Hourn said ASEAN had shifted its focus from strategy formulation to implementation by adopting the work plan under the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan with 162 activities across 49 strategic measures.

He appreciated the RoK’s contributions to ASEAN’s connectivity process, noting that upgrading the AKFTA was necessary and timely to modernise the foundation of economic cooperation, diversify and enhance supply chain resilience in line with targeted objectives and the demands of the new economic context.

The forum included two discussion sessions, focusing on the effects of global economic drivers and strengthening ASEAN-the RoK connectivity and cooperation.

Furthermore, delegates also exchanged measures to promote sustainable growth and offered recommendations for upgrading the AKFTA, as well as promoting future-oriented cooperation between ASEAN and the RoK.

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