Thai PM joins high-powered leaders for 2nd ASEAN Future Forum

The second ASEAN Future Forum (AFF) will be held in Hanoi on February 25-26, featuring special guests, including presidents and high-level representatives from ASEAN member states. The forum has become an annual event where government officials, scholars, and private sector leaders discuss key issues related to ASEAN’s future.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, will deliver video messages during the forum’s opening session tomorrow.

The incoming ASEAN Chair, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, will also attend the forum and is scheduled to deliver the keynote speech in person at the two-day conference.

Other high-level officials expected to participate include Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, Lao Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn.

AFF will feature three sessions focusing on megatrends and the world in 2035, revisiting ASEAN’s fundamentals, and preparing for future challenges. It is designed to foster open and in-depth discussions to strengthen regional dialogue and cooperation while reinforcing ASEAN’s centrality and relevance.

The forum also highlights Vietnam’s proactive role in ASEAN. AFF 2025 reflects Hanoi’s increasing contributions to strengthening the bloc’s unity and resilience.