Kuala Lumpur: Anwar Bin Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, expressed his gratitude towards Thaksin Shinawatra, leader of the ASEAN Chairman's advisory team, for his significant contributions in addressing the Myanmar crisis during the 46th ASEAN Summit.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar delivered an address at the summit, where he highlighted the critical role played by the Malaysian advisory board, chaired by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Anwar emphasized the board's efforts to resolve the Myanmar crisis, praising their contributions amidst representatives from ASEAN and international media. He called upon ASEAN leaders and sectors to collaborate towards strengthening the ASEAN Community with a focus on inclusivity and sustainability.
Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman of the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office, further relayed Anwar's optimism regarding ASEAN's future. The Prime Minister expressed confidence in ASEAN's ability to navigate geopolitical transitions and global trade challenges, particularly those stemming from high US tariffs. Anwar has established the ASEAN Geo-economics Task Force to tackle these issues. He acknowledged the ASEAN Chair Advisory Group, led by Thaksin, for their pivotal role in the third meeting held in Bangkok, which was instrumental in advancing resolutions to the Myanmar crisis.
Anwar remains assured that ASEAN's unity and centrality will enable the region to confront various future challenges. At the summit, Malaysia also initiated the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, marking a trilateral collaboration that signifies global partnerships with major powers. This new summit is anticipated to have a broad positive impact.