PM Anwar Ibrahim says ASEAN’s economic cooperation agreements with strategic partners, including the US and China, strengthen the bloc’s centrality.
KUALA LUMPUR: Economic cooperation agreements between ASEAN countries and their strategic partners reinforce the bloc’s role in forging centrality, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
While cooperation with the United States remains important, the ASEAN 2025 Chair emphasised the bloc would continue deepening engagement with other markets to maintain regional peace and economic growth.
Responding to questions about his conversation with President Trump during their ride in “The Beast” on October 26, Anwar said he raised the issue of high reciprocal tariffs imposed by Washington.
“I mentioned that 19% is still high and we discussed a zero tariff rate on selected products,” he told a press conference concluding the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
He also addressed issues related to peace and security during the discussion.
Anwar added that ASEAN and China signed the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) 3.0 Upgrade Protocol, reflecting ASEAN’s centrality in promoting regional peace and economic development.
Earlier, Anwar handed over the ASEAN chairmanship gavel to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr, marking the ceremonial transition as Malaysia nears the final phase of its 2025 chairmanship. – Bernama
