Strengthening Collaboration Between Malaysia and ASEAN
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan recently hosted ASEAN secretary-general Dr Kao Kim Hourn to a working lunch in Kuala Lumpur, in conjunction with the latter’s three-day working visit to Malaysia beginning Monday. The visit is significant in strengthening collaboration between Malaysia and the ASEAN Secretariat, and underscores both parties’ commitment to ensuring the success of Malaysia’s Chairmanship in 2025.
ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 Priorities
Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry, Wisma Putra, said that Mohamad outlined Malaysia’s main priorities for the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, focusing on maintaining regional peace and stability, enhancing economic integration, and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth. "The foreign minister reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to sustaining peace, stability, and prosperity in the region through continuous dialogue, diplomacy, and goodwill based on the principle of ASEAN Centrality," Wisma Putra said.
Support from ASEAN Secretariat
Mohamad expressed deep appreciation for the support extended by the ASEAN Secretariat thus far, particularly through consultations with various Malaysian ministries and agencies under the three ASEAN Community pillars. He welcomed the Secretariat’s continued advice and support towards ensuring the smooth organisation of ASEAN meetings in Malaysia next year, and expressed confidence that the unwavering support of the ASEAN Secretariat would play a significant role in the success of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.
Establishment of Timor-Leste Unit
Mohamad also reaffirmed Malaysia’s strong support for the establishment of a Timor-Leste Unit at the ASEAN Secretariat, emphasizing the importance of the unit in facilitating Timor-Leste’s membership into ASEAN. He called for its expedited operationalization.
Conclusion
The visit and working lunch between Mohamad and Kao highlights the strong commitment of both Malaysia and the ASEAN Secretariat to strengthening collaboration and ensuring the success of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. With Malaysia’s priorities focusing on maintaining regional peace and stability, enhancing economic integration, and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth, the country is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the region in 2025.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of Kao Kim Hourn’s visit to Malaysia?
A: Kao’s visit is significant in strengthening collaboration between Malaysia and the ASEAN Secretariat and underscores both parties’ commitment to ensuring the success of Malaysia’s Chairmanship in 2025.
Q: What are Malaysia’s main priorities for the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025?
A: Malaysia’s priorities focus on maintaining regional peace and stability, enhancing economic integration, and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.
Q: What is Malaysia’s position on the establishment of a Timor-Leste Unit at the ASEAN Secretariat?
A: Malaysia strongly supports the establishment of a Timor-Leste Unit at the ASEAN Secretariat, emphasizing its importance in facilitating Timor-Leste’s membership into ASEAN.