KUALA LUMPUR: In an increasingly multipolar global landscape, cooperation between regional groupings such as the European Union (EU) and ASEAN is more vital than ever, said European Council (EC) President Antonio Costa.
He emphasised that a multipolar world demands multipolar collaboration, noting that stronger political, economic, and people-to-people ties between the two regions are essential to shared stability and prosperity.
“And as you know, the EU is a reliable, predictable, and trustworthy partner. And I think the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits provided an excellent opportunity to demonstrate that,” he said when appearing as a guest on Bernama TV’s The Nation programme on Tuesday.
Costa, who is also the former Prime Minister of Portugal, further emphasised that strengthening its engagement with ASEAN continues to be among the EU’s top priorities.
He also commended Malaysia’s leadership and constructive role under its ASEAN Chairmanship this year, describing it as a significant achievement for the region.
He emphasised that Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair, played a very important role in mediating the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, while also noting the achievement of Timor-Leste’s accession as ASEAN’s 11th member state.
“If we have peace today, we must thank Malaysia’s mediation efforts in ending the conflict,” he said.
Costa arrived in Malaysia on Saturday to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits as a Guest of the Chair. – BERNAMA
