Kuala Lumpur: ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and China together represent a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of US$24.87 trillion (US$1=RM4.21) and a population of about 2.15 billion, offering vast opportunities to synergise markets, deepen innovation, and promote cross-regional investment, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the unique configuration of ASEAN, the GCC, and China coming together for the first time. He noted that these regions are rich in history, civilization, and culture, and share aspirations that could lead to a new chapter of dialogue and cooperation. Anwar made these remarks during his opening speech at the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, themed 'Synergising Economic Opportunities Towards Shared Prosperity.'
The summit was attended by notable figures including Kuwait's Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, China's Premier Li Qiang, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, and Malaysia's Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz.
In 2023, ASEAN's GDP reached US$3.8 trillion, marking it as the world's fifth-largest economy. The same year saw total trade with the GCC amounting to US$130.7 billion with foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows of US$390.2 million. China, as ASEAN's largest trading partner, recorded US$696.7 billion in trade and US$17.3 billion in FDI, highlighting both existing linkages and substantial untapped potential.
Anwar expressed his hope that the summit would symbolize a new chapter in ASEAN's journey of outward-looking engagement, showcasing the achievements possible when partners collaborate with mutual respect and shared purpose. He conveyed confidence that ASEAN, the GCC, and China could leverage their unique attributes to shape a more connected, resilient, and prosperous future for generations to come.
Among the ASEAN leaders present at the summit were the Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Also in attendance were Timor-Leste's Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao as an Observer, and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn.