KUALA LUMPUR: Asean is central to the strength and success of the diverse and dynamic Asia Pacific region, says Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
He said the regional grouping bridged the shared aspirations and collective determination of nations in the region to meet common challenges.
"This is a forum where we can work together to build and sustain a peaceful, stable and prosperous region for all of our citizens," he said in his opening remarks at the 5th Asean-Australia Summit here on Tuesday (Oct 28).
Albanese also said he is pleased to announce that Asean and Australian leaders have issued a joint statement on conflict prevention and crisis management, an important statement that demonstrates a shared commitment to uphold a peaceful and stable South-East Asia.
"This statement highlights Asean’s role in mutual trust (among) member nations to address misunderstanding, navigate differences and prevent escalation," he said.
Albanese also said Australia wants to seize the opportunities for investment and trade that it identified in the Regional Strategy 2040 roadmap.
"At a time of global economic uncertainty, Australia certainly does remain invested and committed to South-East Asia’s growth and prosperity," he said.
According to Albanese, Australia’s investment of A$1.28bil (RM3.52bil) in development programs in South-East Asia is about building economic resilience, embracing opportunities of digital transformation, and supporting cleaner and cheaper energy to deliver stronger economies and a healthier environment.
"Above all, Australia’s partnership with Asean is anchored in deep trust between our nations and enduring friendship between our peoples," he said.
Albanese said everyone in the Asia Pacific must work together to ensure security and prosperity in the region.
"We are not mere spectators. We are engaged and responsible. Together, we will share a future.
"We must work together to build the security and prosperity that we want for all of our citizens. In this, we all have a part to play," he added.
Also present during the Asean-Australia Summit was Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who interjected Albanese’s speech and asked why Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who was born in Sabah, was not here in KL.
According to Albanese, Wong could not be here as the Australian Parliament is in session.
"Parliament is sitting and we need our senator there at this point in time. She is here in spirit," Albanese quipped.
Albanese has been here since Monday (Oct 27) for the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits that will conclude this evening.
Australia was Asean’s first dialogue partner in 1974.
