KUALA LUMPUR: The Asean Geoeconomics Task Force (AGTF) will present its findings and recommendations to a proposed joint session of Asean Foreign Ministers and Asean Economic Ministers (AEM), said Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
The Investment, Trade and Industry Minister said the proposed joint session, which will deliberate the findings of the task force, is scheduled to take place prior to the 47th Asean Summit this October.
“This approach ensures a balanced perspective, fosters mutual understanding, and guides policies that reinforces Asean’s economic resilience and political coherence,” said Tengku Zafrul during his opening remarks at the 5th Meeting of the AGTF on Tuesday (Sept 23).
Tengku Zafrul said the idea of establishing the AGTF was first floated during the 31st Asean Economics Ministers (AEM) Retreat in February this year and it aims to develop strategic solutions in response to various unilateral tariffs imposed by the United States.
But, Tengku Zafrul said the AEM decided on April 10 that AGTF roles should also transcend Asean-US issues by broadening its focus to address a wider array of geopolitical and geoeconomics priorities.
“This is because the AEM recognises that the nexus between economic growth and progress is deeply intertwined with the political landscape.
“Policy decisions, governance frameworks, and regional cooperation collectively shape trade, investment, and the overall economic ecosystem. This underscores the need for coordinated, proactive, and forward-looking strategies across Asean,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul also said the AGTF team has worked diligently over the past five months to consolidate its findings and develop actionable recommendations.
“The stakes and expectations are high and I sincerely hope these recommendations address both political and economic security, laying the groundwork for inclusive, forward-looking strategies,” he added.
Asean economic ministers are in KL for the 57th AEM Meeting this week.
Among other meetings, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) ministers’ meeting and the Asean-EU business summit, will take place this Thursday.
Meanwhile, a series of consultations will take place from Wednesday to Friday with the United States, South Korea, Canada, India and Russia.
