KUALA LUMPUR: Algeria and Uruguay have officially joined the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in South-East Asia (TAC), further strengthening the treaty's standing as a cornerstone of regional stability and peaceful cooperation.

Their accession brings the total number of states party to the Asean treaty to 57.

Representatives from both nations formalised their commitment on the sidelines of the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related meetings at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here on Wednesday (July 9).

Algeria was represented by its Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad, Ahmed Attaf while Uruguay was represented by its Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. Also present were other Asean foreign ministers, including Timor-Leste, thus signifying the bloc's collective welcome of the new signatories.

Established in 1976, the TAC embodies universal principles of peaceful coexistence and friendly cooperation among states. It serves as a legally binding code for inter-state relations within South-East Asia and extends its influence beyond the region.

The treaty has undergone three amendments – in 1987, 1998, and 2010 – primarily to allow for accession by states outside South-East Asia and regional organisations comprising sovereign states.

The TAC has garnered significant international support, attracting signatories from major global powers including China, the United States, Russia and the European Union.

This broad participation highlights the treaty's crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in South-East Asia and the wider international community.

The 58th AMM and related meetings are being held from July 8 to 11 under Malaysia's Asean Chairmanship for 2025 with the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability'. – Bernama