Saudi Foreign Minister Participates in Second GCC–ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, May 28 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — On behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah participated Tuesday in the second summit between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), held in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur.

In his remarks, Prince Faisal reaffirmed the strong foundations established during the first GCC–ASEAN summit hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh in 2023, describing it as the beginning of an ambitious strategic partnership.

He stressed the importance of strengthening mutual commitment by advancing digital transformation, enhancing public-private sector engagement, deepening regional integration, and fostering economic cooperation between the two blocs. He praised Malaysia’s hosting of the second summit and its efforts to expand bilateral and multilateral opportunities in areas of shared interest.

“The economic relations between our countries offer promising opportunities in vital sectors, including finance, agriculture, halal industries, and renewable energy,” Prince Faisal said, noting a 21% increase in trade volume from 2023 to 2024, reaching $123 billion.

He highlighted the Economic and Investment Conference organized by the Saudi Ministry of Investment on May 28, 2024 in Riyadh as a major platform for building bridges between the private sectors of both regions and unlocking new investment channels.

Prince Faisal also addressed global challenges including climate change, energy market volatility, and the need to enhance food and water security, urging continued collaboration to meet these shared challenges.

On the Middle East, he reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, based on the two-state solution and international resolutions. He called for increased international efforts to ensure humanitarian access to Gaza and strengthen regional stability through collective diplomatic and relief initiatives.

In closing, Prince Faisal reiterated Saudi Arabia’s support for all initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation between GCC and ASEAN nations and advancing a shared vision of sustainable development and prosperity for both regions.