Asean faces three key challenges - fighting terror, improving trade and maintaining unity - that call for closer cooperation by member states, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told fellow leaders at the Asean summit yesterday.

The frequency of attacks has increased, with self-radicalisation and "lone wolf" attacks on the rise, while terror groups are linking up with one another, he said.

Besides greater coordination to fight this threat, Mr Lee urged leaders to conclude negotiations on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership trade pact.

He also stressed the importance of Asean leaders standing together even on issues that members may disagree on, such as the South China Sea.

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