US leadership ‘vital to peace and prosperity,’ says Singapore PM at 13th ASEAN–US Summit
At the ASEAN–US Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong praised the United States’ role in maintaining peace and prosperity in Southeast Asia, as President Donald Trump helped de-escalate border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to the region.
- Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasised the United States’ indispensable role in maintaining global and regional stability.
- Wong praised US President Donald Trump’s leadership in promoting peace, including his mediation in the Thailand–Cambodia ceasefire.
- He called for deeper ASEAN–US cooperation in digital transformation, energy security, and regional integration.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA: The United States remains essential to global and regional peace, stability, and prosperity, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said on Sunday at the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
Speaking at the 13th ASEAN–US Summit, Wong welcomed US President Donald Trump back to the region, commending his “leadership and commitment to global efforts for peace and engagement.”
Wong credited Trump’s role in securing a ceasefire plan for Gaza, helping de-escalate border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, and addressing transnational challenges such as online scams and drug trafficking.
Ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia
Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia had escalated in July into the deadliest clashes along their shared border in decades, leaving more than 40 dead and displacing about 300,000 people.
After five days of fighting, both nations agreed to a ceasefire brokered in part by President Trump.
On Sunday, the two countries formally signed an agreement to cease hostilities and release captured soldiers.
The accord was signed by Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, with Trump presiding. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the ASEAN chair, witnessed the signing.
ASEAN–US partnership and shared benefits
Wong described the ASEAN–US relationship as “mutually beneficial,” stressing that regional stability supports growth for both Southeast Asia and the United States.
He noted that US investments and trade links have supported more than 600,000 American jobs.
With nearly 700 million people, ASEAN represents a major market for US exports “from corn to Boeing planes to some of the best military equipment in the world,” Wong said.
He added that collaboration in the digital economy and energy infrastructure could further strengthen ties.
Opportunities exist for American firms to expand their role in Southeast Asia’s digital transformation and renewable energy grid development.
Recognising US role in Southeast Asia’s stability
Wong acknowledged America’s “actions, sacrifices, and efforts” in contributing to regional peace, noting that continued US engagement remains crucial for Southeast Asia’s stability and prosperity.
He expressed confidence that strong leadership from Washington will allow ASEAN and the US to “thrive together,” and invited Trump to attend the bloc’s 50th anniversary of ASEAN–US relations in 2027, when Singapore will hold the chairmanship.
Trump’s current visit marks the first by a US president to Malaysia since Barack Obama in 2015.
Trump was welcomed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport by Anwar Ibrahim in a ceremony featuring music and cultural performances.
Regional diplomacy and bilateral engagements
Wong also participated in the 28th ASEAN–Japan Summit with Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and in the 22nd ASEAN–India Summit attended virtually by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On the sidelines, Wong held bilateral meetings with leaders from Brazil, South Africa, and the European Council.
He reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to cooperation with Brazil on climate action, carbon markets, and sustainable fuels ahead of COP-30 in Belém in November 2025.
Discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa centred on strengthening ASEAN–Africa links, trade, and innovation, while talks with European Council President Antonio Costa highlighted opportunities in digital and trade partnerships.
Timor-Leste joins ASEAN as 11th member
A major development at the summit was the formal admission of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member, concluding a 14-year accession process. Wong described the milestone as the “result of years of patient engagement and thoughtful deliberation.”
He said Singapore would support Timor-Leste’s integration to build “a stronger, more united ASEAN.”
The bloc also discussed expanding intra-ASEAN trade and upgrading the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) to enhance economic resilience.
ASEAN leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating transnational crime, including online scams, as part of efforts to deepen regional cooperation and security.
“With the inclusion of Timor-Leste and our commitment to deeper integration,” Wong said, “ASEAN is sending a clear signal — we are united and determined to build a more prosperous and secure future for all our people.”
