The Sasakawa Peace Foundation has been implementing the Asia Political Leaders Exchange program since 2023 with the aim of fostering mutual understanding and strengthening networks among political leaders from Southeast Asia and Japan. As part of this initiative, the Asia Statespersons’ Forum (ASF) is held annually as a platform for political leaders from Southeast Asia and Japan to engage in dialogue and exchange perspectives.
The fourth Forum (ASF4) was held in Chitose, Hokkaido, from July 30 to August 1, 2026. A total of 12 political leaders from five countries, namely Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, participated in the Forum.
On the first day, a welcome reception was held. Returning participants from last year's Forum were pleased to reunite after a year apart, while new participants were warmly welcomed, creating an atmosphere conducive to meaningful exchanges.
On the second and third days, discussions were conducted on the following three themes:
- International Law and Security
- Energy Security and Energy Transition
- Youth Political Participation in the Digital Age
Each session began with an expert lecture, followed by candid and lively discussions among participants. The exchanges brought together a wide range of views and perspectives from across the participating countries.
On the afternoon of the second day, participants joined an excursion that included visits to the Rapidus, R&D and Manufacturing Base, “IIM” and the JGSDF Camp Higashi-Chitose. Through these visits, participants gained a deeper understanding of regional challenges and initiatives by observing practical examples on the ground.
Following the discussions on the third day, participants visited Lake Shikotsu, where they experienced kayaking and further strengthened personal connections in an informal setting.
The Forum was conducted in a warm and collegial atmosphere throughout, providing a valuable opportunity for participants to build trust and deepen mutual understanding. Through frank exchanges of views on key regional and global issues, the Forum also contributed to strengthening networks among political leaders from Southeast Asia and Japan.
The Sasakawa Peace Foundation remains committed to organizing ASF on a continuous basis and to further promoting dialogue and exchange among political leaders from Southeast Asia and Japan.
