ASEAN, China, Gulf Leaders Hold Inaugural Summit in Kuala Lumpur

Southeast Asian nations, led by Malaysia under its ASEAN chairmanship, are actively seeking to diversify and fortify their trade networks amid increasing geopolitical uncertainty and US tariff pressures. In Kuala Lumpur, the inaugural trilateral summit of ASEAN, China, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) emphasized building a resilient economic alliance to promote shared prosperity and stability. Chinese Premier Li Qiang advocated for enhanced strategic alignment and expedited free trade agreements, aiming to create a large shared market spanning the three regions. Meanwhile, ASEAN leaders, concerned about US tariffs disrupting regional economies, pledged to safeguard their collective economic interests and engage the US on fair trade practices. The summit also addressed regional security issues, including calls for a ceasefire in Myanmar, underscoring ASEAN's broader diplomatic engagement. Experts note that ASEAN is transitioning from a traditional intermediary role to actively diversifying partnerships between China, the Gulf states, and beyond to adapt to shifting global economic dynamics.