Trudeau Stresses Importance of Canada’s Continued Presence in Southeast Asia as ASEAN Summit Concludes
Canada needs to maintain its presence in Southeast Asia to capitalize on the region’s economic growth, stated Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during his visit to Laos.
Trudeau attended the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit for the third consecutive year, emphasizing the importance of fostering relationships with ASEAN members to access economic opportunities.
He stressed the need for Canadians to actively engage in the region to benefit from what Southeast Asia has to offer, highlighting the significance of trade missions, investments in maritime security and defense, and upgrading diplomatic facilities.
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During the visit, Trudeau announced the upgrade of diplomatic missions in Vientiane, Laos, and Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to full embassies. Additionally, he unveiled a $128 million funding package at the summit, with the majority allocated towards environmental protection and climate change initiatives.
Canada’s focus on Southeast Asia aligns with its pursuit of free-trade agreements with ASEAN and Indonesia, aiming to finalize these deals by year-end. Trade with ASEAN countries grew significantly last year, making them Canada’s fourth-largest trading partner.
The visit also advances Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy, which aims to bolster military and economic ties in the region and mitigate China’s influence.
Canada’s engagement in Southeast Asia is part of a broader Western strategy to diversify economic partnerships and reduce dependence on Chinese products. Issues like the South China Sea disputes are among the concerns shared by countries in the region.
The ASEAN summit occurred amidst tensions between China and ASEAN members like the Philippines and Vietnam, prompting interventions from global leaders like U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who emphasized the need to uphold international law and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.
Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to respecting international law and ensuring open navigation in international waters, emphasizing actions like sending Coast Guard vessels and military ships through the South China Sea as demonstrations of this commitment.
