Mutual trust: Albanese speaking at the summit, held in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. — Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Asean is central to the strength and success of the diverse and dynamic Asia Pacific region, says Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
According to Albanese, the Asean platform brings together the shared aspirations and collective determination of nations in the region to address 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 at KL Convention Centre yesterday.
Albanese also said he is pleased to announce that Asean and Australian leaders have issued a joint statement on conflict prevention and crisis management.
“This statement highlights Asean’s role in mutual trust in member nations to address misunderstandings, navigate differences and prevent escalation.”
Albanese added that 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 him, Australia’s investment of AU$1.28bil (RM3.52bil) in development programmes 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 region must work together to ensure security and prosperity in the area.
Also present during the summit was Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who interjected Albanese’ speech to ask why Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who was born in Sabah, was not present. Albanese said Wong was not present as the Australian Parliament session is ongoing.
“The Parliament is sitting, and we need our senator there. She is here in spirit,” quipped Albanese.
Anwar, who spoke earlier, said Australia has always been a supporter of Asean and its commitment is shown in history since it became the regional group’s first dialogue partner in 1974.
“Significant achievements have been seen between Australia and Asean since the signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in 2020, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, the upgrade of the Asean-Australia Free Trade Agreement in 2023, and the 50th anniversary celebration last year.
“So, the meeting today is a great opportunity to exchange views and be able to find ways, not only to navigate but also to enhance this relationship.
