Kuala lumpur: ASEAN and Switzerland must strengthen their cooperation in promoting peace, dialogue and respect for international laws amid escalating global tensions, said Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. In his opening remarks at the Trilateral Meeting between Switzerland and the ASEAN Secretariat on Thursday, Mohamad said Switzerland’s focus on peace, human rights, responsible business conduct and humanitarian mine action demonstrates a genuine alignment with ASEAN’s values.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Trilateral Meeting was held on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and related meetings at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). He said both ASEAN and Switzerland play key roles in advocating for peace and prosperity, noting the regional bloc’s role in convening countries, including major powers, to address shared concerns and foster mutual cooperation.

Mohamad emphasized that together, ASEAN and Switzerland should lend a collective voice to advocate for dialogue and peace, which is vital in a world where warlike language has become prevalent. He also underscored the importance of upholding international law and seeking peaceful solutions to conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Gaza, and stressed the necessity of holding Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza and the region.

Meanwhile, Ignazio Cassis, the Federal Councillor and head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, expressed concern over rising global instability and reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to multilateralism and peaceful diplomacy. He highlighted Switzerland’s role in promoting a just and peaceful international order and acknowledged the importance of regional and international organizations.

Cassis noted that the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter serve as Switzerland’s guiding framework in today’s turbulent times, emphasizing the need to engage in dialogue not only with like-minded partners but also with those holding differing views. Also present at the trilateral meeting was the Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn.