The European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have jointly called on the United States and Iran to resolve ongoing tensions through peaceful means, with a strong emphasis on maintaining maritime stability and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Anadolu Agency.
In a joint statement issued after the EU–ASEAN 25th Ministerial Meeting held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, both blocs underscored the importance of upholding international maritime law, particularly the principles outlined in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The statement reaffirmed the need to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight in and above international straits, stressing that these waterways remain critical for global trade and energy flows.
The two sides also expressed concern over any unilateral or discriminatory actions that could disrupt shipping or restrict vessels passing through strategic maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz. Such disruptions, they warned, could have serious implications for global economic stability and energy security.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas represented the European Union at the meeting, while ASEAN was hosted by Brunei’s Foreign Minister Prince Mohamed Bolkiah. The discussions brought together key regional and global stakeholders amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The joint statement also welcomed efforts aimed at de-escalation between Washington and Tehran, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement in preventing further escalation. It further noted the significance of maintaining open sea lanes as a shared global responsibility.
