VIENTIANE, LAOS. In a continued effort to deepen economic and strategic ties, Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Kao Kim Hourn met with Canada’s Minister of International Trade Mary Ng during the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit held in Vientiane. The high-level dialogue marked another milestone in the partnership between ASEAN and Canada, with both sides aiming to finalize a comprehensive free trade agreement by 2025.
Shared Commitment to Economic Growth
Minister Ng reaffirmed Canada’s dedication to expanding trade and investment across Southeast Asia. At the center of the discussion was the long-negotiated ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA). Both parties expressed confidence in the momentum built so far and a shared determination to conclude the deal within the next year.
The agreement is expected to enhance market access, reduce trade barriers, and unlock new opportunities for businesses and workers across ASEAN and Canada. It also signals a broader commitment to regional economic integration and post-pandemic recovery.
Aligning Strategic Visions
In addition to trade, the summit addressed Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and its alignment with ASEAN’s regional priorities. Both leaders emphasized the need to maintain a stable, inclusive, and rules-based regional order—a cornerstone for sustainable peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
Minister Ng acknowledged ASEAN’s central role in regional diplomacy and conveyed Canada’s interest in engaging more actively in ASEAN-led initiatives. The Secretary-General welcomed Canada’s deepening role, framing it as a shift from transactional cooperation to long-term strategic alignment.
Expanding Cooperation on Global Challenges
Beyond economics, the meeting highlighted the need for collaboration on digital transformation, sustainability, and climate resilience. Both sides agreed that global challenges such as technological disruption and climate change demand joint solutions.
Minister Ng underscored Canada’s interest in supporting ASEAN’s efforts in green technology, digital infrastructure, and inclusive innovation. These partnerships aim to create a more resilient, future-ready regional economy.
Elevating ASEAN Voices on the Global Stage
Looking ahead to Canada’s 2025 G7 presidency, Minister Ng stressed the country’s commitment to amplifying ASEAN perspectives in global forums. By including Southeast Asian voices in international decision-making, Canada hopes to contribute to a more balanced and representative global agenda.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of mutual commitment to strengthening the ASEAN-Canada strategic partnership. Since establishing dialogue relations in 1977, both sides have built a foundation of trust and cooperation—now poised to evolve into a deeper, more multidimensional alliance.
According to ASEAN, the momentum from this summit reinforces a shared vision for peace, prosperity, and innovation across the Indo-Pacific.
