KUALA LUMPUR: The upgraded Asean Trade in Goods Agreement (Atiga) is a crucial step forward to strengthen member nations' economic foundations, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
"To strengthen those foundations, we are trading more among ourselves, investing more in one another, and advancing integration across sectors.
"The upgraded agreement is a decisive step forward," he said during the Handover Ceremony of the Second Protocol to Amend the Atiga at the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits here on Sunday (Oct 26).
He said Asean’s resilience rests on its openness, the free flow of trade, capital and people.
The agreement's purpose is to minimise barriers, deepen economic linkages, lower costs, increase trade and create a larger market.
"The signing of the Asean-China Free Trade Area 3.0 on Oct 28 will mark a new chapter in our partnership, demonstrating shared commitment to fair trade, digital transformation and sustainable energy," he said.
He said Malaysia will host the 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Leaders’ Summit on Monday (Oct 27) to give new momentum to its implementation.
"Beyond the Asean+1 frameworks, we are accelerating the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world’s largest free-trade pact," he said.
Anwar also paid tribute to his Asean colleagues for their cooperation during Malaysia’s chairmanship this year.
He gave special recognition to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah pf Brunei for his invaluable advice.
"I benefitted immensely because the previous Chair, Laos, was very cooperative with us, but more so the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, and his country were helpful and supportive in all of (our) endeavours," he added.
