The fundamental principles of ASEAN involve mutual respect for the independence and sovereignty of its members. It holds the right of every member state to lead its national existence from external interference. It calls for the non interference in the internal affairs of one another and the settlement of differences in peaceful manner. It denunciates the use of force or threat.
Ever since its inception three decades ago, no tension has spiraled into armed confrontation among ASEAN member countries due to the political dialogue and mutual understanding they share.