PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said an ecosystem that fosters new opportunities, inclusive growth and open markets can be shaped by harnessing ASEAN’s vast growth potential together with South Korea’s technological and economic strengths.
Delivering his opening remarks at the 26th ASEAN-Republic of Korea (ROK) Summit today, Anwar said the partnership, nurtured over the past three decades, is based on mutual trust, respect, and shared benefits.
He said in 2024, trade between ASEAN and South Korea exceeded USD200 billion, reflecting the strength and resilience of trade ties.
“We are meeting at a time of technological disruption, strategic competition, fragmented supply chains, but amid these forces, ASEAN and the Republic of Korea stand out as nations that recognise progress must come and can be enhanced through collaboration and cooperation,” he said as reported by Bernama.
The meeting was co-chaired by the South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and attended by other ASEAN leaders.
Lee is also scheduled to attend the 28th ASEAN Plus Three (ASEAN+3) Summit, alongside Japan and China, to discuss ways to further strengthen broader regional cooperation.
The three-day 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from Sunday under Malaysia ASEAN Chairmanship 2025, themed ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, bring together more than 3,000 delegates, including prominent leaders from over 30 countries and organisations, aimed at strengthening engagement and cooperation. - October 27, 2025
