KUALA LUMPUR: Asean, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China can leverage their unique attributes to create a more connected, resilient, and prosperous future, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that Asean, GCC, and China collectively represent a combined GDP of USD 24.87tril and a population of 2.15 billion.
"This scale offers vast opportunities to synergise our markets, deepen innovation, and promote cross-regional investment," he said on Tuesday (May 27).
Anwar said this during his opening remarks at the inaugural Asean-GCC-China Economic Summit.
He added that Asean has long demonstrated that regionalism, anchored in consensus, respect, and openness, can succeed.
"We have thrived in our long-standing partnership with the GCC and China. Today, we can enhance these ties," he said.
Anwar highlighted the deep and enduring connections between Asean, GCC, and China.
"From the ancient Silk Road to Southeast Asia's vibrant maritime networks to modern trade corridors, our peoples have connected through commerce, culture, and ideas," he said.
He mentioned Mecca and Madinah as centres for millions of pilgrims and Oman as a major trading route.
"Historically, centres like Melaka exemplified this tradition, serving as vital crossroads linking East and West," he said.
Anwar said Asean today carries forward that legacy on a broader scale, emerging as a dynamic crossroads of global commerce, innovation, and opportunity.
Welcoming leaders and delegates to the summit, Anwar remarked on the regions' achievements.
"For the first time, Asean, GCC, and China have united in this unique configuration," he said.
He noted that the three partners are rich in history, civilisation, culture, and shared aspirations.
"GCC has become a centre for financial strength, AI, digital sectors, and energy. China has transformed the regional economy and the international scene, driving change and reform," he said.
At the Asean level, Anwar praised the unmatched friendliness, trust, and collaboration between countries.
"We work and think together, focusing on core issues, achieving understanding, and registering peace," he said.
Anwar highlighted that Asean is one of the most peaceful and fastest-growing regions globally.
