CEBU CITY, Cebu — Aiming to move beyond dialogue and generate actionable partnerships that can support long-term resilience and a sustainable development agenda, the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations-European Union (ASEAN–EU Sustainability Summit will highlight regional cooperation, energy transition and sustainable growth in the region amid the prevailing energy crisis across the globe.
Scheduled on May 7 in Cebu, a day before the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit, the pre-conference event joins together ASEAN government leaders and European business executives will tackle the worsening crisis which has impacted several economies that include the Philippines.
The high-level gathering comes as the country faces supply chain disruptions and broader economic strain that underscore the need for stronger regional cooperation and sustainable growth strategies. Organizers said discussions will focus on how ASEAN can strengthen resilience through deeper ASEAN-EU ties and stronger public-private sector collaboration.
Among the program highlights will be a ministerial panel that features finance secretary Frederick Go and Indonesian Deputy Minister of National Development Planning Leonardo A.A. Teguh Sambodo. EU Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro will join the dialogue on ASEAN-EU cooperation with Climate Change Commission (CCC) vice chair and executive director Robert E.A. Borje.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn EU Ambassador to ASEAN Sujiro Seam, and European Commission representatives are also expected to participate through virtual mode.
Key discussions will center on sustainability priorities under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairmanship, including energy transition, green finance, circular economy development, sustainable trade and supply chains and climate-resilient agriculture.