Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, participated in the ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia. The event was marked by discussions on strengthening the partnership between ASEAN and the United States.
Foreign Minister Sokhonn expressed gratitude to Malaysia for hosting the conference and welcomed Secretary Rubio on his first ASEAN Post Ministerial Conference with the United States. He highlighted the importance of ASEAN-U.S. relations amid global uncertainties and praised their progress since elevating their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.
"Our collaboration encompasses economic engagement, innovation, combating transnational crime, maritime cooperation, health security, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges," said Foreign Minister Sokhonn. He emphasized confidence in the future of their strategic partnership.
Secretary Rubio acknowledged Cambodia's role as a partner and expressed appreciation for Malaysia's leadership as chair. "We’re thankful to Cambodia’s partnership as the U.S. country coordinator," he stated.
Representing President Donald Trump's administration, Rubio underscored the significance of the Indo-Pacific region in U.S. foreign policy. "The story of the next 50 years will largely be written here in this region," he remarked.
Rubio affirmed that ASEAN is central to regional dynamics and emphasized building relationships without seeking approval from other actors. "We consider it to be sovereign, independent states with whom we have longstanding relationships," he noted.
He concluded by reiterating commitment to advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific aligned with U.S. national priorities.