Kuala lumpur: The invitation extended to President Donald Trump to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur was made in Malaysia’s capacity as ASEAN Chair, as the United States holds the status of a dialogue partner of the bloc, explained Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He clarified that the invitation was not based on Malaysia-US bilateral relations but rather because Trump is the head of state of an ASEAN dialogue partner, aligning with the Chair’s responsibility to invite all leaders.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad emphasized that as ASEAN Chair, it is essential to invite all heads of state to maintain good diplomatic practice. He stated that ASEAN must adhere to a policy of neutrality, ensuring no country is excluded from such invitations. This principle of neutrality has been pivotal in maintaining regional stability and upholding the centrality of ASEAN as the main reference point and primary platform for regional dialogue.

Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had formally invited Trump to participate in the ASEAN-US Summit and the East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur. These events are set to occur alongside the ASEAN Summit.

The 47th ASEAN Summit is scheduled from October 26 to 28, with involvement from key leaders across Asia, Europe, Canada, Africa, and Latin America.