KUALA LUMPUR: Asean’s position is to ensure that its relations with its neighbours, particularly with China, Japan and South Korea remain strong and formidable to protect its open economies, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“Our fundamentals will remain strong if we can secure peace in this region, and peace will be being friendly to all our neighbors. As I've said, China is a very important player,” he said during his closing remarks at the 12th Asean Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting here on Thursday (April 10).
Anwar said that the situation that China was facing would also impact the Asean’s economy.
The United States raised tariffs against China to 125% after Beijing retaliated by saying it would impose tariffs of 84% on US imports.
Anwar said Asean’s position would be one of centrality.
Anwar said Asean’s position would be one of centrality, saying the region continues to enjoy strong bilateral and trading relations with the United States.
He hoped that most contentious issues would be resolved amicably.
“Our position in Asean is clear - we are for free trade. We are guided by a rule-based economy.
"I'm extremely delighted when I engage with the leaders of Asean.
"Of course, countries will have their own specific priority and actions, but without exception, all leaders say Asean has to work together and present a more cohesive, coherent case within Asean and in our engagement with the West, including the United States.
"And to me, this is extremely heartening,” he added.
Anwar said he was also in contact with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who had expressed interest in collaborating with Asean.
He added that he had also been in close discussions with President Donald Trump’s close contacts.
He said Asean has been an extremely successful regional collaboration.
“You look at the regional groupings around the world. Asean is an exception. This has been going for decades.
"I'm not denying the fact that sometimes we have some minor issues here and there, but never to the extent of distrust, discord or even envy.
"So I think we should work on that,” he said.
He also said Asean must push through with economic measures including development at bordering regions and connectivity projects, quickly.
