The Role of ASEAN in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and Foreign Policy

Organized by the Canada-ASEAN Business Council, this session aims to delve into Canada's evolving geopolitical strategies and foreign policies, particularly focusing on its engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) within the broader context of the Indo-Pacific region.

The discussion will explore Canada's interests, challenges, and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific and its commitment to fostering partnerships with ASEAN countries. The event seeks to provide insights into Canada's geopolitical priorities, its approach to multilateralism, and the significance of ASEAN in its foreign policy agenda. Through expert analysis and dialogue, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Canada's role in the Indo-Pacific and the prospects for enhancing cooperation with ASEAN member states.

Key Topics:

• Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy: An overview of Canada's strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region, including economic opportunities, security concerns, and diplomatic initiatives.
• ASEAN's role and importance: Understanding ASEAN's role as a regional organization and its significance as a key player in shaping the Indo-Pacific dynamics.
• Canada-ASEAN Relations: Examining the historical context of Canada's engagement with ASEAN and analyzing current diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Canada and ASEAN member states.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Identifying the challenges and opportunities in deepening Canada's engagement with ASEAN within the Indo-Pacific framework, including economic integration, security cooperation, and cultural exchange.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Exploring avenues for enhanced multilateral cooperation between Canada, ASEAN, and other regional stakeholders to address common challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and economic development.

Set on the sideline of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, this briefing promises to delve into crucial geopolitical dynamics shaping our world today. We invite you to seize this opportunity to broaden your understanding, engage in insightful discussions, and expand your professional network among industry leaders. Your presence at this event is highly anticipated, and we look forward to welcoming you for an enriching and thought-provoking experience.

Tentative Agenda

1:00 - 1:05 PM: Opening remarks by Wayne Farmer, CABC President

1:05 - 1:45 PM: Discussion on Canada's evolving geopolitical strategies and foreign policies on ASEAN in the context of Indo-Pacific Strategy

1:45 - 2:10 PM: Q&A with audience

2:10 - 2:30 PM: Open networking