By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 — Asean’s ability to engage both the United States and China reflects the bloc’s central role in maintaining regional stability and trust amid global tensions, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at the opening of the 28th Asean-China Summit, Anwar said the bloc’s continued engagement with all major partners demonstrates its commitment to upholding neutrality and cooperation across political divides.
“If people are curious, the day before we were with President Donald Trump of the United States of America, and today we are back with China. That reflects Asean centrality,” he said in his speech here today.
“I commend and congratulate my colleagues in Asean for the wisdom to maintain centrality and friendly relations with all countries.
“This is what we consider steady engagement that fosters trust and enables us to work through challenges together.”
Anwar said with Timor-Leste now joining as a new member, Asean’s diversity of perspectives remains one of its strengths.
“Complete uniformity of views is neither possible nor desirable, but this appreciation for China’s consistent and constructive engagement is shared by all,” he said.
The prime minister also welcomed the signing of the Asean-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) 3.0 upgrade protocol earlier today, describing it as a milestone in regional economic cooperation.
“I thank again my colleagues in Asean and China for this spectacular feat,” he said.
Anwar expressed appreciation to Chinese Premier Li Qiang for attending the summit, saying Asean looks forward to continued collaboration in trade, investment, and regional development.
The Asean-China Summit was held under the auspices of the 47th Asean Summit, which runs from October 26 to 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Malaysia is the current Asean chair, with the Philippines to take over from January 1.
