Petaling Jaya, October 24, 2024 – The Europe Today: Malaysia is set to play a crucial role in strengthening the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as it assumes the chairmanship of the regional bloc next year. The United States has expressed its confidence in Malaysia’s leadership and is keen to offer support during its chair year, said US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel J. Kritenbrink.
Kritenbrink, speaking after attending the Sixth Malaysia-United States Senior Officials Dialogue in Putrajaya on October 21, praised Malaysia as a “regional leader” with a strong democratic foundation. The dialogue, marking the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Partnership between the two nations, covered key areas of cooperation, including economic and trade relations, peace and security, and people-to-people ties.
“We are really excited about Malaysia’s chair year in ASEAN and believe it will lead ASEAN in promoting regional stability and cooperation,” Kritenbrink said, adding that Malaysia’s multiethnic and advanced economic structure makes it an ideal leader.
During the dialogue, the US also discussed supporting Malaysia’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, highlighting American investments in Malaysia’s clean energy transition.
Malaysia officially took over the ASEAN chairmanship from Laos during the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Vientiane on October 11.
