[KUALA LUMPUR] Stability and security create conditions not only for Asean to grow, but also for America and its companies to benefit from being in South-east Asia, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Sunday (Oct 26).
Speaking at the 13th Asean-US Summit where he welcomed US President Donald Trump back to the region, PM Wong said that US investment and trade with the region has supported more than 600,000 American jobs.
With a population of almost 700 million, he said, the bloc is a growing market for American goods and services.
“Our region buys US exports from all 50 states of America – from corn to Boeing planes to some of the best military equipment in the world,” he said.
“In short, the Asean-US relationship is mutually beneficial. It has made our countries safer, stronger, more prosperous. I believe we can do more together,” said PM Wong.
For example, he said that even as Asean continues on its digital transformation journey, there will be opportunities for American companies to grow their software and digital systems, especially when many of these companies already have well-established presence and strong reputations.
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Beyond the digital economy, PM Wong highlighted Asean’s efforts to build out the Asean Power Grid, and welcomed American companies to help with the process.
In his speech, PM Wong spoke about the importance of the US for the “peace, stability and prosperity for the world and for our region”, and how Trump has demonstrated this with his leadership.
This includes his role in de-escalating the border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, securing a plan to end the Gaza conflict and his personal attention to combatting online scams and drugs.
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As for the US’ role in South-east Asia, PM Wong described the region as one that has historically been geographically fragmented and unstable.
“But it was America’s actions, sacrifices and efforts that contributed to South-east Asia’s peace and stability, and we will never forget these sacrifices,” said PM Wong, adding that America’s continued actions and leadership that will enable South-east Asia to thrive.
In his remarks, Trump said the US is with the “nations of South-east Asia… 100 per cent, and we intend to be a strong partner for many generations”.
