Strengthening inter-regional diplomacy

The expression "vital role" should be interpreted as a consensus understanding of what ARF expects from its activity.

In nuanced language ARF reminds:

the commitment of the ARF in fostering constructive dialogue and cooperation on political and security issues of common interest and concern; enhancing mutual understanding and transparency, accepting and whenever possible reconciling divergent views to reduce the risk to security, promoting respect for international law, including the UN Charter and its related instruments, as well as promoting confidence-building and preventive diplomacy to maintain peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

For consistency reasons ARF reminds the basic principles contained within the 1994 ARF Concept Paper, which is an important foundational document that has guided the development of the ARF since its inception.

For similar reasons the document reiterates the importance placed by ASEAN on the principles and objectives in the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.

A significant element of the document is the specific reference to the dialogue encompassing interfaith and inter-cultural interaction as well as to the efforts to promote respect, understanding and tolerance among people of all religions and no religions, beliefs and cultures as an important part of ARF efforts to promote peace and security.

The topicality of the document is revealed also by the reference to all the principles and purposes of the United Nations set out in the Charter of the United Nations which calls for maintaining the international peace and security; and underlining the necessity of respecting human rights and international humanitarian law in resolving conflicts.

Attention should be paid to the fact that ARF reaffirmed in clear terms the role of ASEAN as the primary driving force of the ARF and emphasizing that the active, and equal participation and cooperation of all ARF participants is critical for the success of the ARF.

Having in mind the current tensions in international relations , it is quite natural for ARF to emphasize the importance of the peaceful settlement of disputes and sustaining peace, particularly through the prevention of armed conflict, strengthening of the rule of law, and promotion of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, poverty eradication, social development, sustainable development, reconciliation and unity including through inclusive dialogue and mediation, access to justice, accountability, good governance, and gender equality while promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The document is realistic in its assessments by recognizing that despite the ARF's best efforts and successful endeavours, security threats and challenges that could undermine the peace, security and stability of the region still exist, and that such challenges are increasingly multifaceted in nature which require common resolve and cooperation to address them.

Finally, as a conclusion the preambule underlines the importance of creating a favourable environment for enhancing cooperation among "our countries" in keeping with the principles of consensus, equality, partnership, consultation, and mutual respect, and the value of ARF as a venue for constructive dialogue, thereby contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and the world at large.

Responsible commitments

The whole Declaration analyzed in these pages reminds by its structure and style , including its frequent repetions, a traditional UN resolution. Its operative part is opened by an interesting terminology. ARF announces that "Do hereby endeavour to:" What follows are 12 paragraphs in which ARF informs what its participants are committed to do in the future.

First of all they renew their individual and collective commitment to build upon the achievements of the ARF and strengthen dialogue and cooperation in existing and new areas to promote and maintain regional peace and security.