Tehran hosted the 19th Foreign Ministers’ Meeting of the Asia Co-operation Dialogue (ACD) Forum on June 25, 2024, marking a significant step towards enhancing multilateral cooperation in Asia. The gathering saw participation from 41 delegations representing over 30 countries, underscoring the forum’s broad appeal and strategic importance.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister, Ali Bagheri Kani, emphasised that hosting the ACD Forum Ministerial Meeting in Tehran showcased Iran’s commitment to strengthening multilateralism and fostering cooperation across Asia. Kani highlighted Iran’s dedication to playing a pivotal role in promoting regional unity and collaboration.
Mehdi Safari, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Diplomacy, pointed out that the ACD serves as an excellent platform for member states to enhance their cooperation, particularly between major regional groupings like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS. Safari stressed the potential for these synergies to drive economic and diplomatic progress in the region.
During the forum, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko and his Indian counterpart, Dammu Ravi, held discussions on the sidelines, focusing on co-operation within BRICS and the SCO. These talks highlighted the interconnected nature of Asian diplomatic and economic efforts, reinforcing the importance of coordinated strategies.
Background of the ACD
The Asia Cooperation Dialogue was established in 2002 at the initiative of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, with the aim of promoting regional cooperation and dialogue amongst Asian countries. Since its inception, the ACD has grown to include 35 participating states, making it a vital platform for addressing common challenges and opportunities in the region.
Significance of the Meeting
The ACD Ministerial Meeting in Tehran provided an opportunity for Asian countries to deepen intra-regional cooperation and interaction on various fronts. It also highlighted Iran’s efforts to strengthen its ties with major Asian groupings like BRICS and the SCO. The forum served as a venue for constructive dialogue and the formulation of strategies to enhance economic, political, and cultural ties amongst member states.
Overall, the 19th ACD Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tehran underscored the importance of multilateralism and regional cooperation in addressing the complexities of the modern world. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to foster closer ties and more robust cooperation amongst Asian nations, contributing to a more interconnected and resilient region.
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