KUALA LUMPUR: The next phase of Asean-China economic cooperation must be driven by strategic technological collaboration, sustainable growth and human capital development, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said China has been Asean’s most significant economic partner for years, and this relationship will continue to be a cornerstone of regional stability.
He added that as global economic dynamics evolve, Asean's engagement with China must also adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
"This means that we must move beyond traditional trade and investment figures and focus on a partnership that is transformational and future-oriented.
"We must embrace and support the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into regional supply chains, ensuring that Asean remains at the forefront of the digital economy," he said in his opening address at the China Conference Southeast Asia 2025, on Monday (Feb 17).
Also present at the event were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong and Chinese ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing.
Anwar added that Asean’s connectivity with China must also extend beyond enhancing trade efficiency.
"It must drive shared prosperity," said Anwar.
