Held within the framework of the Yerevan Dialogue 2026, the panel discussion “Regional Identity and Strategic Autonomy: The Asia-Pacific Response to Great Power Rivalries” explored the changing role of Asia-Pacific states in an increasingly competitive international system.
The panel discussion was moderated by Manish Chand, CEO of the Centre for Global India Insights of India, and brought together Arthayudh Srisamoot, Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Mnatsakan Safaryan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Lê Nguyễn Thiên Nga, Director of the Institute of Policy Administration and Development Strategy of Viet Nam, and Aisha Kusumasomantri, Director of Cooperation and External Affairs of Indo-Pacific Strategic Intelligence of Indonesia.
The discussion explored how countries in the region navigate intensifying geopolitical rivalries while seeking to preserve strategic autonomy. Participants examined the ways in which states pursue independent foreign, security, and economic policies, while maintaining engagement with multiple global actors. Particular attention was given to strategic autonomy as a flexible and pragmatic approach within the context of great power competition.
Participants further emphasized that regional identity plays an increasingly important role in shaping strategic choices, enabling states to balance external pressures while safeguarding national interests. The Asia-Pacific experience was highlighted as offering valuable insights into managing geopolitical complexity through diversified partnerships, inclusive regional frameworks, and adaptive policy approaches in a rapidly evolving international order.
