KUALA LUMPUR: The thriving economies of the United States and Southeast Asia have significant potential to usher in a golden age for both regions, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
According to Anwar, this was because two-way trade reached a record of US$453bil last year, supporting jobs and businesses across the US and Asean.
To strengthen relations, Anwar said the adoption of the Asean-US joint vision statement would promote a stronger, safer and more prosperous partnership between Asean and the United States.
“This reflects our will and commitment to turn cooperation into concrete outcomes with tangible benefits for Asean and the United States,” he said during his opening remarks at the 13th Asean-US Summit at KLCC on Oct 26.
Anwar also said that grounded in shared aspirations for peace and prosperity, the US-Asean relations have deepened into a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Meanwhile, Anwar said the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Accords between Cambodia and Thailand was undoubtedly an achievement that reflects the strong political will of both countries’ leaders and people.
“Mr President, Asean holds in high regard your vital role in facilitating this agreement,” added Anwar.
Anwar also said Asean welcomed US President Donald Trump’s comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict.
“It has given the world a glimmer of hope that even in the most intractable conflicts, diplomacy and determination can prevail.
“And we trust that, with your leadership, Mr President, we’ll achieve a just and durable peace,” said Anwar.
Earlier, Trump and Anwar witnessed the signing of the KL Peace Accord between Thailand and Cambodia.
Trump was at the 47th Asean Summit on Oct 26, and was scheduled to leave for Japan on Oct 27.
