EU-ASEAN: A Reliable Partnership in a Changing World

A Multipolar World Requires Multipolar Cooperation

Ahead of the summit, President Costa highlighted the alignment between the EU and ASEAN: “The EU’s participation in this summit is an important signal of the deepening of the EU–ASEAN relationship,” President Costa stated. “It is a recognition of the EU as a reliable and predictable partner for ASEAN. We are two regional organisations that share the same objectives: building peace, stability and prosperity through cooperation and integration.”

Upon arrival, President Costa was honoured by the warm invitation from the ASEAN Chair, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. In his remarks as Guest of the Chair, President Costa emphasised a key message:

“We live in a multipolar world. A world facing increasing fragmentation and uncertainty. And so it is crucial that we weave a global network of cooperation across regions,” he told the assembled leaders. In today’s shifting geopolitical environment, the EU is proud to stand as a reliable partner to ASEAN, working together toward a future of cooperation, integration, and shared growth, he added.

Expanding Economic and Strategic Ties

The EU and ASEAN share a strong interest in enhancing security, trade, and connectivity. As ASEAN’s third-largest trading partner and second investor, the EU is deeply invested in the region’s economic growth. This momentum, established with the 2020 EU-ASEAN Strategic Partnership, was further solidified during the EU-ASEAN Commemorative Summit in Brussels in December 2022.

Looking ahead, the ambition is clear: elevating their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by 2027, the 50^th anniversary of EU-ASEAN relations. 

Fostering Deeper Connections

Beyond the summit, President Costa engaged in bilateral talks with leaders from ASEAN and the wider region. A visit to Airbus Malaysia, accompanied by EU Member States Ambassadors, underscored the importance of the EU’s investment in the region. These engagements reflect the EU's long-term commitment to strengthening EU-ASEAN ties for lasting stability and prosperity.