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Malaysia Hosts Historic Trilateral Gathering to Unlock Economic Potential Across Asia and the Gulf
By TENGKU NOOR SHAMSIAH TENGKU ABDULLAH
KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 — A new trilateral chapter in diplomacy and development was written today in Kuala Lumpur as leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China convened for the first-ever ASEAN-GCC-China Summit.
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his role as ASEAN Chair, described the meeting as an unprecedented opportunity to deepen ties among three of the world’s most dynamic regions — each rich in history and economic potential.
“For the first time, ASEAN, the GCC, and China come together in this unique configuration — three partners, each rich in history, civilisation, culture, and shared aspirations — gather to open a new chapter of dialogue and cooperation,” Anwar said during his opening address.
From Historical Linkages to Strategic Integration
Themed “Synergising Economic Opportunities Towards Shared Prosperity”, the summit aligns with Malaysia’s broader ASEAN Chairmanship vision of “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” Prime Minister Anwar underscored that while ASEAN, the GCC, and China have long engaged bilaterally, this trilateral format creates a new space to “synergise markets, deepen innovation, and promote cross-regional investment.”
Drawing from history, he cited ancient trade routes and port cities like Malacca as early examples of the cultural and commercial bridges that once linked Asia and the Gulf.
“From the ancient Silk Road to the vibrant maritime networks of Southeast Asia, our peoples have long connected through commerce, culture, and the sharing of ideas.”
Today, that legacy continues on a much larger scale:
- ASEAN’s GDP reached USD 3.8 trillion in 2023, making it the world’s fifth-largest economy.
- Trade with the GCC stood at USD 130.7 billion, with FDI inflows of USD 390.2 million.
- ASEAN-China trade hit USD 696.7 billion, with FDI flows of USD 17.3 billion.
Combined, the three regions account for a GDP of USD 24.87 trillion and a population of over 2.15 billion, offering immense potential for coordinated growth and strategic alignment.
Premier Li Qiang
Laying Foundations for Stability and Prosperity
Anwar said the summit presents an opportunity to chart a future rooted in mutual respect, economic resilience, and geopolitical balance — especially at a time when global uncertainties demand cooperation over competition.
“Despite the challenges, I am confident that ASEAN, the GCC, and China can draw upon our unique attributes and shape a future that is more connected, more resilient, and more prosperous,” he said.
He reaffirmed ASEAN’s successful model of regionalism based on consensus, inclusivity, and respect for sovereignty, and called for deeper trust and connectivity across the trilateral framework.
Dialogue Begins, Partnerships Deepen
Following Anwar’s remarks, he invited His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait and current President of the GCC Supreme Council, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang to deliver their opening statements. The session then moved into closed-door discussions focusing on:
- Trade and investment corridors
- Digital economy and green transition
- Food and energy security
- Peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and Gulf regions
As leaders left the public session for private consultations, the tone was one of optimism and ambition.
“With this spirit of optimism and shared purpose, I look forward to constructive and fruitful discussions today,” Anwar said.
- TNS News
- All images credit to MFA