International relationsSoutheast Asia bloc seeks more cooperation to tackle energy crisis, AI disruptionsSoutheast Asian leaders pose for a group photo during the opening ceremony of the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila on Nov. 15. © ReutersNovember 15, 2026 11:51 JSTMANILA -- ASEAN leaders kicked off gatherings in Manila on Sunday morning, seeking more cooperation against geopolitical and economic headwinds -- as sticking points remain on the Myanmar crisis, transboundary haze and a South China Sea binding pact.