Manila, May 1 -- Economic ministers from Southeast Asian nations have unveiled proposed measures to strengthen regional trade, supply chain resilience and coordinated response to external shocks.

The Philippines, represented by Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, convened the ASEAN Economic Community Council on Thursday to discuss the economic implications of the ongoing Middle East crisis.

"We strongly reaffirmed the critical importance of maintaining stable, secure, sustainable, and resilient global supply chains and maritime trade routes, particularly for essential goods and services," a joint statement released on Friday read.

The ministers said their respective countries will "strengthen intra-ASEAN trade and supply chain connecti...