Asean trade ministers pose for a group photograph during related ministerial meetings that began on Saturday. (EPA Images pic) MANILA: Southeast Asian foreign ministers begin meetings in Manila on Saturday as the regional bloc seeks a coordinated response to surging energy costs, security tensions, and an approaching El Niño, challenges Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has said demand collective action.
"Especially at a time when we face multiple crises, from rising oil prices to security concerns and the approaching El Niño, Asean needs to act as one," Marcos said ahead of the meetings, which the Philippines will chair. "It is very important that we are united and find plans and solutions to address these problems."
