Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized the importance of neutral diplomacy and active ASEAN engagement in resolving disputes in the South China Sea. Speaking at the 37th Asia-Pacific Roundtable (APR) in Kuala Lumpur, Anwar dismissed the notion of external interference, advocating instead for regional collaboration.
Responding to a query from a Philippine delegate regarding Malaysia's approach as the ASEAN Chair for 2025, Anwar highlighted Malaysia's success in handling the South China Sea issue through a neutral stance within the ASEAN framework. \"We are deemed and seemed to be really neutral in the engagement,\" he stated.
The Prime Minister reiterated that conflicts in the South China Sea should be resolved among ASEAN member countries and China, without the involvement of external parties. \"There should not be involvement with other parties because it will be deemed to be more complex and will complicate the matter,\" Anwar concluded.
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Malaysian PM rejects external interference on South China Sea issue
cgtn.com
