ASEAN Summit Leaders Discuss Trade and Security

At the recent ASEAN summits in Vientiane, leaders including Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and economic integration. Marcos urged Canada to expedite negotiations on a free trade agreement with ASEAN, highlighting its potential economic benefits and Canada's commitment to regional initiatives. Modi reinforced the significance of the India-ASEAN partnership in fostering peace and collaboration amid regional tensions, particularly in the South China Sea and Myanmar. Chinh called for enhanced cooperation with India on various fronts, including climate change and security, while supporting India's strategic initiatives. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau underscored trilateral cooperation among Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, focusing on critical minerals and security partnerships through the Five Eyes alliance. The summits collectively highlighted a shared commitment to stability, development, and mutual support among ASEAN nations and their partners.