US remains ASEAN's important partner, ambassadors to take stock of new developments

The United States (US) remains an important partner for ASEAN despite the uncertainties created by the US administration and the region should continue to use all avenues, including ambassadors and trade and investment framework agreements (TIFA) as a basis to engage the US.

International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed suggested that ASEAN ambassadors, at their annual meeting in Washington DC, to take stock of all economic measures announced and implemented by the U.S Administration under President Donald Trump.

"Analyse the impact of the economic policies on ASEAN trade, investment, tourism and overall economic relations," he told a press conference here today.

Malaysia, he said proposed collective policy response by ASEAN on the new policies introduced by the US Administration.

"ASEAN Economic Ministers should also continue to hold regular dialogues with the US-Asean Business Council to gather feedback as well as from US companies on their views to remain engaged in the region," he said.

Mustapa said ASEAN should continue to promote free and fair trade and cooperate on building an open world economy which would ensure growth and sustainability in the region.

"All ASEAN representatives in Washington D.C are recommended to step up work and activities in promoting ASEAN's interest in Washington," he added. -- Bernama