Kuala lumpur: The United States (US) has commended Malaysia's leadership as ASEAN Chair this year, describing it as 'strong and effective' in steering the regional bloc through key areas of cooperation. US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D Kagan expressed his optimism that the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, officially commencing this Sunday, would be a successful event.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kagan noted Malaysia's capability in chairing ASEAN, recalling past instances of Malaysia's leadership in 2015 and 2005. He praised Malaysia's role in key areas, particularly in the digital sector, and emphasized the close partnership between the US and Malaysia.

Kagan also commented on US President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Malaysia for the ASEAN Summit, highlighting its significance. He remarked that the visit reflects Washington's recognition of Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region's importance.

Malaysian Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed Trump's attendance at the summit, which is set to be the largest since ASEAN's inception in 1967. Trump will participate in the 13th ASEAN-US Summit and witness the signing of the 'Kuala Lumpur Accord', a ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand brokered by Malaysia.

The US began its engagement with ASEAN as a dialogue partner in 1977, and the relationship has evolved significantly, culminating in a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022. The US is a key player in the region, being the largest source of foreign direct investment and participating in forums like the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum.

The US Mission to ASEAN website highlights the economic ties, noting ASEAN as the fifth-largest export market for US food and agricultural goods. The region's digital economy is projected to reach US$2 trillion by 2030.

Malaysia, under the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability', will host the 47th ASEAN Summit from Oct 26 to 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.