Trudeau Strengthens Canada’s Indo-Pacific Ties at ASEAN Summit

Trudeau Strengthens Canada’s Indo-Pacific Ties at ASEAN Summit
Trudeau at ASEAN Summit in Laos (image source: X / @JustinTrudeau)

Vientiane, Laos – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reinforced Canada’s commitment to its Indo-Pacific Strategy and deepened ties with Southeast Asian nations during the recent ASEAN Summit held October 6 – 11, 2024, in Vientiane, Laos. Engaging in a series of high-level meetings with regional leaders, Trudeau highlighted Canada’s expanded role in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring trade, security, and diplomatic priorities.

During the summit, Trudeau met with various leaders, including Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of Laos, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam, and ASEAN Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn.

The summit emphasized the benefits of deepened trade and economic integration across the region, particularly through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and negotiations for a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement. Trudeau’s meetings showcased Canada’s proactive steps in strengthening economic ties, such as the upcoming Team Canada Trade Missions to Cambodia and Thailand in 2025, and the recently concluded mission to Vietnam.

The Prime Minister and his counterparts also focused on regional security concerns, notably in the South China Sea, where increased tensions have prompted greater collaboration. Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection Program emerged as a key component in supporting maritime security efforts. Discussions also touched on global issues, including Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and the humanitarian impact in the Middle East. Trudeau extended invitations to ASEAN leaders to participate in Canada’s upcoming Ministerial Conference on Ukraine’s peace initiatives.

A central highlight of the summit was Trudeau’s meeting with Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, where they marked the first year of the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership and celebrated Canada’s increased engagement with ASEAN nations. Trudeau noted that Canada will continue fostering growth across mutual priority areas such as climate change, food security, and digital innovation.

The summit marked an important diplomatic milestone, with Trudeau being the first Canadian Prime Minister to attend three ASEAN Leaders Summits. Canada’s decision to upgrade diplomatic offices in countries like Cambodia and Laos to full embassies signifies a commitment to long-term regional collaboration. In line with Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, these moves aim to solidify Canada’s standing as a key partner for ASEAN nations.

Prime Minister Trudeau’s discussions throughout the summit underscored Canada’s dedication to promoting peace, prosperity, and resilient partnerships, laying the groundwork for more robust Canada-ASEAN relations in the years to come.

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