During the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the United States in Manila, Vietnam emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between ASEAN and the US in pivotal sectors such as trade, artificial intelligence, digital technology, and energy transition. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung highlighted the significance of Washington’s dedication to the region’s peace, stability, and development and advocated for the swift finalization of a new comprehensive work program between the two parties.
Trung proposed broadening cooperation in crucial areas including trade and investment, the digital economy, semiconductors, and science and technology innovation. He also emphasized the importance of energy transition and regional energy connectivity. The minister called for continued US support in the Mekong sub-region, particularly in water management, climate change adaptation, infrastructure development, and workforce training.
Focusing on regional security, Trung stressed the necessity of maintaining peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and adherence to international law. He appreciated the US’s ongoing support for ASEAN’s stance on the South China Sea and encouraged Washington to assist in reinforcing an open, inclusive, and rules-based regional order with ASEAN at its center. Addressing issues in the Middle East, Trung advocated for increased dialogue and the restoration of secure maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the protection of navigation freedom under international law.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the United States’ support for ASEAN, underscoring Southeast Asia’s strategic and economic importance. He promised continued US investment in supply chains, the digital economy, energy security, power-grid connectivity, and civil nuclear cooperation. This commitment to strengthening ties was echoed by an agreement between ASEAN and the United States to deepen economic relations, enhance cooperation in high-value industries, and boost people-to-people exchanges.
Both sides pledged to improve coordination in addressing challenges such as terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and online scams, further solidifying their commitment to fostering a collaborative and prosperous future for the region.
