ASEAN and New Zealand celebrate 50 years of dialogue partnership, launching a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to elevate future cooperation.
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim commended the 50-year partnership between ASEAN and New Zealand, describing it as founded on stability, trust and mutual respect.
He said the milestone underscores both sides’ shared commitment to peace, prosperity and continued regional cooperation.
“This enduring partnership has brought immense benefits to both sides,” Anwar said in his brief remarks at a gala lunch marking the anniversary.
“We have not encountered any serious problems since 1977 – a testament to our mutual respect, shared values and friendship.”
Anwar also welcomed New Zealand’s renewed commitment to strengthening engagement under the newly established Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the CSP marks a new chapter in their shared future.
He reaffirmed his country’s commitment to elevating relations with ASEAN, highlighting the bloc’s role as a vibrant and dynamic hub.
Luxon noted that New Zealand’s formal engagement with ASEAN has continued to grow stronger over the years.
“We share deep connections between communities, education, culture, business, and between our defence establishments,” he said.
“The pillars of our relationship – peace, prosperity and people – speak to its breadth and importance.”
He added that the CSP sets a new direction for the future with high expectations and biennial summits.
The event was attended by ASEAN leaders including the Sultan of Brunei, Singapore’s Prime Minister, and the Presidents of the Philippines and Timor-Leste.
Malaysian Deputy Prime Ministers and several ministers were also present.
The gala lunch was enlivened by captivating kapa haka performances that brought cultural vibrancy to the event. – Bernama
