GEORGE TOWN: France is committed to working closely with Southeast Asia, focusing on Malaysia's leadership role in Asean, said Axel Cruau.
The French ambassador to Malaysia said Malaysia's central position is a key driving force for Asean's initiatives this year.
"France values Asean's centrality, and Malaysia is essential, especially this year," he said. We anticipate significant progress in Asean’s initiatives under Malaysia’s leadership,” said Cruau.
He added that France expects many new initiatives and hope for progress during Malaysia’s presidency, particularly in security, peace, and stability, the foundations of prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
Cruau added that broadly speaking, France hopes for Malaysia’s active presidency of Asean.
"We know Malaysia has many priorities, with inclusivity and sustainability as the main mottos," he added.
He spoke on Tuesday (January 14) during a media dialogue session at the Embassy and a tour of the French Navy’s air defense destroyer Forbin docked at Swettenham Pier in George Town, Penang.
Cruau was responding to a question about his hopes as Malaysia is now the current Asean chair.
He said France is eager to deepen dialogue with Malaysia to see how France and the European Union can support Asean's efforts.
"Whether it is energy, development, or other priorities, we are here to work together and contribute to Asean's goals.
"We are open to everything.
"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is very involved in this presidency.As you know, he is travelling to Europe and will be in Brussels in a few days. We hope for very positive news during this trip," he said.
He added that France is here to work with Malaysia and the whole of Asean.
"France is a partner of Asean. It wants to do more with Asean as a whole, and that is definitely one of our priorities," he said.
