ASEAN+3 proposes a medical supplies reserve for health emergencies to enhance regional preparedness and cooperation after COVID-19 lessons.
KUALA LUMPUR: ASEAN has proposed establishing the ASEAN+3 Reserve of Medical Supplies for Public Health Emergencies to enhance regional health crisis preparedness.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the initiative is crucial to ensuring collective readiness against potential health threats.
He noted the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of collective resilience, cooperation, and preparedness among regional partners.
“We must double down on engagement and cooperation, which remain the key to stability,” Anwar said in his opening remarks at the 28th ASEAN+3 Summit.
He added that establishing the proposed medical supplies reserve would better prepare the region for future health emergencies.
The summit was co-chaired by Anwar, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung.
Anwar also emphasised that regional growth must be fair and inclusive, ensuring prosperity is broadly shared.
He said it was vital to prepare ASEAN+3 youth and women for a sustainable, inclusive and interconnected region.
The Prime Minister looked forward to constructive engagement on future cooperation that maintains regional stability and opportunity.
The ASEAN+3 Summit discussed ways to further strengthen broader regional cooperation among member states.
Malaysia holds the ASEAN chairmanship this year under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”.
The country is hosting the three-day 47th ASEAN Summit from October 26 to 28.
The event brings together more than 3,000 delegates from over 30 countries and organisations.
Leaders aim to strengthen engagement and cooperation across the region through these discussions. – Bernama
