Bangladesh, Aug. 3 -- The international system is entering an era where dialogue is becoming a scarce commodity. Wars are multiplying, strategic competition is replacing economic cooperation, and many of the institutions that once helped manage geopolitical tensions are struggling to maintain relevance. Diplomatic forums increasingly serve as platforms for public posturing rather than genuine negotiation, while bilateral channels between rival powers have narrowed under the weight of mistrust.

Against this backdrop, the Philippines quietly demonstrated something remarkable. By hosting the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and its associated gatherings in Manila, it reminded the world that diplomacy still has a place-and that ASEAN r...