Vietnam has urged enhanced cooperation between ASEAN and the United States in crucial areas such as trade, artificial intelligence, digital technology, and energy transition during a recent ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the US in Manila. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung played a key role in these discussions, welcoming the United States’ commitment to peace, stability, and development in the region. Trung encouraged both parties to swiftly finalize a new comprehensive work program.
Minister Trung highlighted the potential for expanded collaboration in several strategic sectors, including trade and investment, the digital economy, semiconductors, science and technology, and energy transition. He emphasized the need for continued US support in the Mekong sub-region, particularly in water management, climate change adaptation, infrastructure development, and workforce training. This call for partnership aligns with Vietnam’s broader goals of fostering regional growth and stability.
On matters of regional security, Trung stressed the importance of maintaining peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and adherence to international law. He acknowledged the United States’ support for ASEAN’s stance on the South China Sea, urging Washington to assist in reinforcing an open, inclusive, and rules-based regional order centered on ASEAN principles. Trung also addressed Middle Eastern developments, advocating for increased dialogue and the protection of maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz, while underscoring the significance of safeguarding freedom of navigation under international law.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated the United States’ support for ASEAN, underscoring Southeast Asia’s strategic and economic importance. He committed to ongoing US investment in supply chains, the digital economy, energy security, power-grid connectivity, and civil nuclear cooperation. Rubio’s statements reflect a continued US interest in strengthening ties with the region and addressing mutual challenges.
Both ASEAN and the United States agreed on the need to deepen economic connections, broaden cooperation in high-value industries, and enhance people-to-people exchanges. They also recognized the importance of coordinated efforts to combat issues such as terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and online scams, signaling a shared commitment to tackling these pressing challenges.