Vietnam has advocated for enhanced cooperation between ASEAN and the United States, focusing on trade, artificial intelligence, digital technology, and energy transition. This call was made during the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the US, which took place in Manila. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung highlighted the importance of these areas and encouraged both sides to finalize a new comprehensive work program swiftly.
During the conference, Trung suggested broadening collaboration in pivotal sectors such as trade and investment, the digital economy, semiconductors, and science and technology. He also emphasized the significance of innovation, energy transition, and regional energy connectivity. Additionally, Trung called for continued US assistance in the Mekong sub-region, focusing on water management, climate change adaptation, infrastructure development, and workforce training.
On the topic of regional security, Trung underscored the necessity of maintaining peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and adherence to international law. He expressed appreciation for the US’s support of ASEAN’s stance on the South China Sea and urged the US to aid in reinforcing an open, inclusive, rules-based regional order centered on ASEAN. He also addressed developments in the Middle East, advocating for increased dialogue and the preservation of safe maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz, while emphasizing the need to protect freedom of navigation in accordance with international law.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured Washington’s support for ASEAN, describing Southeast Asia as crucial for strategic and economic reasons. He committed to sustained US investment in supply chains, the digital economy, energy security, power-grid connectivity, and civil nuclear cooperation. The conference highlighted how essential these areas are for the continued partnership between ASEAN and the US.
The discussions also led to an agreement to deepen economic ties and expand cooperation in high-value industries. Both sides committed to enhancing people-to-people exchanges and improving coordination to tackle issues such as terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and online scams. This agreement underscores the mutual dedication to addressing challenges and fostering growth across various sectors.