ASEAN-EU Partnership Pivotal For Economic Integration, Resilience - ASEAN Sec-Gen

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) — The European Union (EU) remains a pivotal partner in advancing ASEAN’s economic integration and resilience, underpinned by robust trade and investment flows, said ASEAN secretary-general Dr Kao Kim Hourn.

In his closing note at the ASEAN-European Union (EU) Business Summit 2025 here, this evening, Kao said the EU’s consistent support has empowered ASEAN to strengthen connectivity, innovation and global engagement.

He said European businesses offer innovation, high standards and a sustained commitment to ASEAN’s growth, with the latest EU-ASEAN Business Sentiment Survey revealing that the majority of European firms regard ASEAN as the world’s most attractive growth region over the next five years, surpassing other major markets.

He stressed that ASEAN’s growing importance to European companies reflects confidence in its evolution into a dynamic hub of growth, innovation and partnership.

“European companies can contribute to diversifying ASEAN’s supply chains, accelerating digitalisation, and advancing decarbonisation initiatives, including renewable energy, recycling, carbon trading and sustainable manufacturing,” he said.

Kao also highlighted that ASEAN’s forward-looking agenda -- guided by the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the ASEAN Economic Community Strategic Plan 2026–2030 -- will focus on modernising trade agreements, doubling the size of the digital economy by 2030 and catalysing transformative growth.

The ASEAN-EU Business Summit 2025 was held alongside the 57th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Meeting and related meetings here.

— BERNAMA