Vietnam has urged for enhanced collaboration between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United States in several key areas, including trade, artificial intelligence, digital technology, and energy transition. This call for stronger ties was made during the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the U.S. held in Manila. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung expressed Vietnam’s desire for a new comprehensive work program with the U.S. to be finalized swiftly, emphasizing the importance of these partnerships for regional peace, stability, and development.
In his remarks, Trung highlighted the need to expand cooperation in sectors such as trade and investment, the digital economy, semiconductors, and science and technology. He also pointed out the significance of innovation and regional energy connectivity. Additionally, Trung called for continued U.S. assistance in the Mekong sub-region, particularly in managing water resources, adapting to climate change, developing infrastructure, and training the workforce.
Addressing regional security concerns, Trung stressed the importance of maintaining peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and adherence to international law. He acknowledged the U.S.’s ongoing support for ASEAN’s stance on the South China Sea and encouraged the U.S. to bolster an open, inclusive, rules-based regional order centered on ASEAN principles. Trung also touched on developments in the Middle East, advocating for increased dialogue and ensuring safe maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz while upholding freedom of navigation under international law.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the United States’ support for ASEAN, underscoring Southeast Asia’s strategic and economic significance. He committed to continuing U.S. investments in supply chains, the digital economy, energy security, power-grid connectivity, and civil nuclear cooperation. Both ASEAN and the U.S. agreed to deepen economic ties, enhance cooperation in high-value industries, and strengthen people-to-people exchanges.
The conference also saw agreements to improve coordination in addressing various challenges, including terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and online scams. Through these initiatives, ASEAN and the United States aim to build a more resilient and interconnected regional landscape.