Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlights Australia’s consistent support as ASEAN’s first dialogue partner during the ASEAN-Australia Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reaffirmed ASEAN’s deep appreciation for Australia’s longstanding partnership with the regional bloc.
Speaking at the fifth ASEAN-Australia Summit, Anwar highlighted Canberra’s unwavering support since becoming ASEAN’s first dialogue partner in 1974.
He welcomed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his delegation to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Malaysia was “doubly honoured” to host the meeting under the ASEAN Chairmanship theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, Anwar said in his opening remarks.
As ASEAN Chair 2025, the Prime Minister noted Australia had remained a consistent supporter throughout decades of regional transformation.
Australia was the first to express support for implementing “ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future”, demonstrating alignment with the region’s strategic vision.
“We have seen significant achievements together from the signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) 2020, Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) 2021, upgrade of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2023, and the 50th anniversary celebration in 2024,” he said.
Today’s summit provided an important platform for ASEAN and Australia to exchange views and strengthen cooperation.
The meeting also aimed to identify new avenues to deepen ties between the regional partners.
Established in 2021, the ASEAN-Australia Summit serves as a high-level forum between ASEAN leaders and Australia under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework. – Bernama
