Kuala lumpur: The United States (US) has described its engagement at the ASEAN-led Foreign Ministers' Meetings (AMM) as "extraordinary". US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US reaffirmed its commitment to ASEAN as its main diplomatic gateway to Southeast Asia. He emphasized the US's deep connection to the region as a Pacific nation, highlighting strong ties and the presence of US citizens in places such as Hawaii and other Pacific territories.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rubio stated that ASEAN is the primary means for the US to engage diplomatically in Southeast Asia. He reiterated that the US, as a Pacific nation, maintains strong relationships with many partner nation-states in the region. During the 58th AMM and related meetings at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Rubio noted that the US is the single largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the region. This economic involvement strengthens its leadership and deepens partnerships with ASEAN countries.

Rubio reported that the US delegation was received positively and that the meetings yielded meaningful outcomes and new areas for future collaboration. He mentioned that the US entered into a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia on civil nuclear cooperation and announced several defence agreements or sales with certain partners, which will be made public soon.

The 58th AMM and related meetings are held under Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship 2025, with the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability". These engagements reflect the ongoing commitment of the US to enhance cooperation and strengthen ties within the ASEAN region.