At the "China Conference: Southeast Asia 2025," Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim delivered a compelling opening speech that set the tone for discussions about the region's future. He urged Southeast Asia to transition towards renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure as the global economic landscape shifts. With the return of Donald Trump to the White House in January, global markets face uncertainty due to his pledged tariffs on Chinese exports and other nations with trade deficits with the United States.
Anwar emphasized that Malaysia, while non-aligned, must navigate the rivalries between major powers like the US and China carefully. He criticized "economic coercion and unilateral actions," advocating instead for economic cooperation driven by strategic technological collaboration between ASEAN nations and China. This partnership, he suggested, could foster sustainable growth and human capital development, essential for leveraging the advantages of artificial intelligence and the digital economy.
The conference aimed to explore the trajectory of Southeast Asia by 2025. Anwar's speech underscored the significance of ASEAN-China cooperation, highlighting how critical it is for the region to adapt to ongoing changes in the global economy. Renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure are pivotal for this adaptation, ensuring that Southeast Asia can navigate the challenges posed by the US-China trade and technology disputes.
Anwar articulated the need for a collaborative approach to economic development, asserting that:
"Our success depends on how well we integrate new technologies, develop economic frameworks and secure a more equitable and sustainable future for all."
His address highlighted that while geopolitical tensions present challenges, they also offer opportunities for ASEAN to strengthen its position on the global stage through strategic partnerships.
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