7th EAS: Together We Deliver in Australia
The 7th East Asia Summit (EAS) was held in Sydney, Australia, on 2 September 2011. This summit marked a significant milestone in the history of the EAS, emphasizing the shared commitment of its member countries to regional stability, security, and prosperity.
Focus on Collective Action and Shared Responsibilities
The theme of the 7th EAS, "Together We Deliver", underscored the spirit of collaboration and collective action that has become synonymous with the forum. Leaders from across East Asia recognized the importance of working together to address critical challenges facing the region, including:
- Economic integration: The EAS members agreed to enhance regional economic cooperation through initiatives like the East Asia Summit Regional Forum on Sustainable Development and the East Asia Summit Business and Industry Advisory Council. These collaborations aim to foster inclusive growth and tackle issues related to poverty, climate change, and infrastructure development.
- Security and stability: The summit highlighted the need for a collective approach to regional security, with a particular focus on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and the fight against transnational crime. Member countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in these areas, including through intelligence sharing and joint exercises.
- Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief: The EAS recognized the increasing threat posed by natural disasters and pledged to enhance cooperation in disaster preparedness and response. This includes improving communication, coordinating relief efforts, and building resilience in affected communities.
Key Outcomes and Agreements
The 7th EAS resulted in several key outcomes, including:
- The Sydney Declaration: This declaration reaffirmed the EAS's commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous, and secure East Asia. It outlined the forum's key priorities for the coming years, including economic integration, security cooperation, and human development.
- The EAS Leaders' Statement on the East Asia Summit Regional Forum on Sustainable Development: This statement emphasized the importance of sustainable development and outlined the forum's goals and objectives.
- The EAS Leaders' Statement on the East Asia Summit Business and Industry Advisory Council: This statement highlighted the role of private sector engagement in fostering regional economic growth and cooperation.
Significance and Legacy
The 7th EAS in Sydney marked a significant step forward in strengthening regional cooperation and promoting stability in East Asia. The summit demonstrated the forum's commitment to collective action and shared responsibility, paving the way for a more integrated and prosperous region. The outcomes of the 7th EAS continue to shape the forum's agenda today, underscoring the importance of multilateralism and collaborative solutions to address the challenges facing East Asia.
The 7th EAS was a testament to the EAS's commitment to delivering on its promise of a more integrated and prosperous East Asia. By working together, the member countries have laid the foundation for a more peaceful and secure region for generations to come.
