The 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit kicked off in Kuala Lumpur with a bold vision: deepen political-security, economic, and socio-cultural partnerships to navigate a world of mounting uncertainties. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim set the tone, emphasizing that ASEAN and the GCC must act as anchors of stability and engines of future growth.
"I believe the ASEAN-GCC partnership has never been more important than it is today," Anwar said. "A stronger relationship will be key to enhancing inter-regional collaboration, building resilience, and securing sustainable prosperity for our peoples."
Crown Prince of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah highlighted the groups' combined strengths: geography, demographics, and strategic influence. He noted that the GCC was ASEAN's seventh-largest trading partner in 2023, with $130.7 billion in trade. He projects a 30 percent jump to $180 billion by 2032, underlining huge investment potential.
Both sides are pressing ahead with economic, trade, investment, and technical cooperation. Ongoing free trade agreement talks aim to streamline supply chains, open new markets, and power sustainable development. The summit also targets joint action on food security, renewable energy, climate adaptation, and combating violent extremism.
On trade policy, Anwar revealed that Southeast Asian nations agreed on a unified approach to U.S. tariffs, ensuring bilateral deals don't undermine ASEAN partners. This consensus reflects a shared commitment to balanced, inclusive growth.
With its roots in the inaugural Riyadh meeting in 2023 and guided by the ASEAN-GCC Framework of Cooperation (2024–2028), this summit promises fresh momentum. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, the event signals new opportunities to engage with inter-regional networks and shape resilient futures.
Reference(s):
2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit boosts inter-regional ties, resilience building
cgtn.com
