New York, 10 March 2026 — The ASEAN Disability Forum (ADF) held a bilateral meeting with the International Disability Alliance (IDA), represented by Mr. José Maria Viera, Executive Director of IDA, accompanied by Ms. Mirriam Mutindi Nthenge, Human Rights Adviser of IDA The meeting was attended by ADF representatives Ms. Saowalak Thongkuay (Chairperson) and Ms. Maulani A. Rotinsulu (General Secretary), and took place in a constructive setting to discuss future collaboration.

 The discussion focused on strengthening cooperation between ADF and IDA, particularly in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities at both regional and global levels. The meeting explored potential areas of collaboration, including joint advocacy, regional engagement, and reinforcing ADF’s role within the global disability movement. Both parties also emphasized the importance of sustained coordination to ensure that disability issues, including perspectives from the ASEAN region, are increasingly integrated into international platforms. Both ADF and IDA expressed their commitment to continued partnership and closer collaboration moving forward. This meeting marks an important step in strengthening the strategic partnership between ADF and IDA in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities in an inclusive and sustainable manner.