Malaysia’s emphasis at the ASEAN Summits will be on promoting regional peace and stability, addressing issues such as the South China Sea and the political crisis in Myanmar. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will also cover topics related to economic integration and digitalization during his participation, which includes meetings with ASEAN Dialogue Partners. Laos will hand over its chairmanship to Malaysia at the end of the summits.
Malaysia is prioritizing the promotion of regional peace and stability during the upcoming 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, as confirmed by Edi Irwan Mahmud, Malaysia’s Ambassador to Laos. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to address key topics such as regional economic integration, digitalization, new technologies, including artificial intelligence, and the overall welfare of ASEAN citizens. Moreover, pertinent international issues such as the South China Sea disputes, the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, and recent conflicts in the Middle East will also be focal points at the summits scheduled from October 9 to 11 in Vientiane. Ambassador Edi Irwan emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to ensuring the preservation of its sovereignty concerning the South China Sea through firm diplomatic means within the ASEAN framework. He reiterated that the implementation of ASEAN’s Five Point Consensus remains crucial for addressing Myanmar’s political crisis, advocating for a peaceful resolution based on this consensus. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will be arriving in Vientiane accompanied by key Malaysian officials, including Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. Additionally, he will engage in discussions with ASEAN’s Dialogue Partners and participate in pertinent regional summits aimed at strengthening partnerships. The ambassador acknowledged Laos’ leadership during its ASEAN chairmanship, which has significantly promoted trade, investment, and collaboration among member nations, strengthening ASEAN’s position in the regional landscape. Laos will transition the chairmanship to Malaysia during the closing ceremony of the summits on October 11.
This article discusses Malaysia’s role and initiatives during the ASEAN Summits, emphasizing its commitment to regional stability and economic cooperation. ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is a political and economic union comprising ten Southeast Asian countries that aims to promote intergovernmental cooperation and facilitate economic, political, security, and socio-cultural integration among its members. With the evolving geopolitical landscape, Malaysia seeks to address critical issues affecting the region, ranging from territorial disputes to humanitarian crises, thus enhancing its diplomatic engagement within ASEAN and with other nations.
In conclusion, Malaysia’s participation in the upcoming ASEAN Summits is characterized by a strong commitment to addressing significant regional issues, emphasizing peace, stability, and economic integration. The expected discussions led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will not only focus on internal ASEAN matters but also engage with external partners to foster a unified approach towards pressing global challenges. With Laos concluding its chairmanship, Malaysia looks forward to furthering ASEAN’s objectives as it prepares to assume the role of chair for 2025.
Original Source: www.bernama.com
