Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting Kicks Off in Vientiane
The Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) has commenced in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, setting the stage for the opening ceremony of the 44th and 45th Asean Summits and Related Summits at the National Convention Centre (NCC) on Oct 9.
Key Discussion Points at the AMM
- Asean community-building efforts
- Strategic future directions
- Management of Asean’s external relations
Malaysian Delegation at the Meetings
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Foreign Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin are leading the Malaysian delegation at the AMM. In addition to this, Mohamad will also participate in the 28th Asean Political-Security Community (APSC) Council meeting and the 35th Asean Coordinating Council (ACC) meeting.
Bilateral Meetings and Engagements
Meanwhile, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz will engage in various bilateral meetings during the Asean Summits. These meetings include discussions with key organizations such as the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia (ERIA), the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (Unescap), and the South China Morning Post.
High-Level Events to Look Forward To
Later in the evening, Tengku Zafrul will attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Reception at the Asean Summit 2024, focusing on enabling Asean’s digital future.
Malaysian Prime Minister’s Participation
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to join the Summits and engage in meetings with Asean’s seven dialogue partners, which include Australia, China, Japan, India, South Korea, the United States, and Canada. He will also take part in the Asean Plus Three Summit, East Asia Summit, and the Asean-United Nations Summit.
Laos to Hand Over ASEAN Chairmanship to Malaysia
As the 2024 ASEAN chair, Laos will pass on the chairmanship to Malaysia during the closing ceremony of the Summits on Oct 11.
This event marks a crucial moment for Asean member countries to discuss key issues, set future directions, and strengthen regional partnerships for mutual growth and prosperity. The participation of Malaysian officials, including the Foreign Minister, Investment Minister, and the Prime Minister, signifies the commitment to advancing Malaysia’s interests within the Asean community and beyond.
The discussions and outcomes of these meetings will not only impact the region’s economic and political landscape but also have far-reaching implications for global cooperation and development. As Malaysia prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship, these engagements are pivotal in shaping the country’s role in the regional dynamics and fostering closer ties with international partners.