KUALA LUMPUR: Asean and South Korea stand out as nations that believe progress must come through cooperation, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that for more than three decades, Asean-South Korea dialogue relations have served as a model of trust, respect and mutual benefit.
"Our partnership has matured into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reflecting the confidence we place in one another and the enduring value of our cooperation," he said in his opening remarks at the 26th Asean-Republic of Korea (ROK) Summit here on Monday (Oct 27).
Anwar said the meeting came at a time when technological disruption, strategic competition, fragmented supply chains and strains on the multilateral trading system were redefining the global economic landscape.
"Last year, trade between us exceeded US$200bil (RM843.6bil), reflecting the strength and resilience of our trade ties.
"Beyond the numbers, Asean offers vast opportunities across diverse sectors, underpinned by the scale, dynamism, and youthful energy of more than 600 million people," he said.
He added that South Korea brings innovation, technology and creative ambitions that continue to inspire the world.
"Together, we can play a significant role in shaping regional resilience," he said.
Anwar said the newly adopted Plan of Action 2026-2030 provides a valuable roadmap.
"Its true worth lies in how we utilise it to navigate the next five years," he added.
He said that by combining Asean's growth potential with South Korea's strengths, all parties can shape an ecosystem that creates new opportunities.
"To drive this progress, we must develop human capital that is future-ready, to prepare our peoples to lead change, to become innovators, entrepreneurs and builders of shared prosperity," he said.
