MALAYSIA’S Asean Chairmanship theme, “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, reflects the aspiration for growth that is equitable, people-centred and forward-looking.
This theme aligns closely with the values shared by Asean and the GCC of stability through unity, prosperity through cooperation, and resilience through shared responsibility.
The Asean-GCC Framework of Cooperation 2024–2028, adopted at our inaugural Summit, provides a blueprint to deepen our collaboration across all three pillars of cooperation. The momentum is encouraging.
In 2023, the GCC was Asean’s 7th largest trading partner, with total trade reaching USD130.7 billion. Investment is also growing, reflecting increasing confidence in the long-term prospects of our partnership.
I believe the Asean-GCC partnership has never been more important than it is today, as we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape marked by economic uncertainty and geopolitical challenges.
A stronger Asean-GCC relationship will be key to enhancing interregional collaboration, building resilience, and securing sustainable prosperity for our peoples.
Today’s deliberations will be crucial in ensuring that our partnership remains dynamic, responsive, and impactful.
Let us use today’s Summit to reaffirm our collective ambition and translate our shared vision into concrete and impactful cooperation.
Asean and the GCC have the means and the responsibility to rise as anchors of stability and engines of future growth.
I look forward to a meaningful exchange of views that will pave the way for tangible initiatives under our growing and enduring partnership. – May 27, 2025
This is an excerpt from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s opening remarks at the 2nd Asean-GCC Summit in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today