Anwar: Asean deepens global ties in most substantive summit yet
Anwar, who is also Asean Chairman, said the summit successfully achieved its objectives, attributing the outcome to the strong support and unity among Asean leaders, as well as the bloc's first meaningful engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China.
"The inaugural meeting in Riyadh was more of a formality, serving primarily to introduce the programme. However, this time around, there were a series of sessions and in-depth discussions, culminating in a highly detailed and comprehensive joint statement.
"Equally significant was the presence of Chinese Premier Li Qiang," he said at a press conference held in conjunction with the 46th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
Also in attendance were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
Anwar said that even on contentious matters such as Myanmar, a fundamental understanding had been reached.
Agreements were also made regarding tariffs and collaborative joint projects.
He credited the success of the summit to the exceptionally thorough and commendable preparations undertaken by the ministers and the Foreign Ministry.
"Credit must also be given to the minister and staff of Miti, as well as other ministries, including Home, Economy, Finance, and Tourism.
"We have delivered one of the most substantive Asean Summits in history, alongside meaningful discussions with the GCC," Anwar said.
He expressed hope that progress would be made on all issues discussed ahead of the 47th Asean Summit in October.
"We must do whatever is necessary — finalising free trade agreements (FTAs) with the GCC, pursuing an FTA with the European Union (EU), enhancing economic ties and promoting intra-Asean trade. All of these require concrete action. By October, we aim to see real, measurable outcomes.
"These discussions are not merely symbolic declarations, but are aimed at driving tangible changes that benefit ordinary citizens.
"I can genuinely sense it. There is a substantial — perhaps even dramatic — shift in attitude. We are determined to act, and everything must be done in the spirit of Asean," he said.
Under the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability', the 2025 edition marks Malaysia's fifth term as Asean Chair, following previous chairmanships in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.
Held in Kuala Lumpur on May 26 and 27, the 46th Asean Summit was accompanied by the second Asean-GCC Summit and the inaugural Asean-GCC-China Summit, which also took place earlier today.
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