Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 7 – So Naro, Minister Delegate attached to the Prime Minister, said that in the recent ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that by 2040, ASEAN will become the world's fourth largest economy.

So Naro spoke during a press conference on Thursday (Mar. 7) after Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet concluded his visit to Australia.

In addition to the announcement, the Australian Prime Minister extended sincere congratulations on the 50-year milestone of friendly relations and the longstanding dialogue partnership between ASEAN and Australia, and underscored that ASEAN is crucial to the future of ASEAN-Australia relations, So Naro added.

Anthony Albanese stated Australia's commitment to actively contribute to prosperity rather than passively observe. The government has unveiled plans to invest an additional USD 2 billion in Southeast Asia to stimulate trade and investment in this rapidly growing region, according to So Naro.

So Naro outlined the collaboration in four key areas: business, education, society, and government. Premier Hun Manet highlighted during the special meeting that ASEAN-Australia is bound by geographical proximity and shared national values that emphasize respect for diversity, culture, and peaceful coexistence.

Over the last five decades, the enduring ASEAN-Australia partnership has demonstrated strength in all situations, serving as a testament to a reliable and mutually beneficial alliance. This steadfast commitment aims at preserving peace and fostering prosperity in alignment with the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Comprehensive Partnership.

Premier Hun Manet also urged the effective implementation of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area. He advocated for the establishment of human resources training infrastructure in areas where Australia excels in quality education and expressed support for the future opening of the ASEAN-Australia Centre.

So Naro highlighted that, following the ASEAN-Australia Special Meeting, leaders endorsed two pivotal documents: the ASEAN-Australia Leaders' Joint Vision Statement, Partnership for Peace and Prosperity, and the Melbourne Statement. These documents aim to intensify comprehensive cooperation in the strategic partnership, bolster mutual trust, safeguard regional stability and security, and foster a prosperous and sustainable future.
=FRESH NEWS