Kuala lumpur: Asean is committed to strengthening intra-regional trade, including increasing intra-member trade to at least 30 per cent by 2030. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan stated that ASEAN member countries need to be more organised and united as a bloc to address the impacts of global conflicts, which include disruptions to trade, the economy, and regional security, especially during conflicts in West Asia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Hasan emphasized the need for ASEAN to focus on efforts to strengthen free trade agreements (FTAs) and facilitate the movement of goods among member countries to bolster intra-ASEAN trade. He highlighted that intra-ASEAN trade has not yet reached 25 per cent, and the goal is to increase it to at least 30 per cent by 2030. To achieve this, ASEAN is currently evaluating the current status, the obstacles, and the steps that need to be taken. A streamlined approach to the memorandum of understanding (MoU), ASEAN FTA, and movement of goods is crucial, with a vision of tariff-free trade between ASEAN countries.

Mohamad noted that the conflict in West Asia serves as an important lesson for ASEAN, illustrating the necessity of cooperation and understanding among member countries to address regional and global challenges. He stressed the importance of leveraging each country's strengths and advantages to find a formula for strengthening cooperation and mutual support.

Regarding the Joint ASEAN Foreign Ministers and Economic Ministers Meeting held on Thursday, Mohamad said it was an initiative launched under Malaysia's chairmanship to ensure coordination between the pillars of political-security and economic affairs. He pointed out that while ASEAN's previous developments largely focused on political and security issues, the emphasis has now shifted to strengthening the economy and fostering more comprehensive regional cooperation. The joint meeting aimed to ensure that every decision is coordinated across all ASEAN pillars, including economic, social, and cultural aspects.