Leaders from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and China gathered in Kuala Lumpur on Friday for the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, marking a historic step in cross-regional collaboration. Chinese Premier Li Qiang joined counterparts from ASEAN member states and Gulf Cooperation Council countries to discuss enhanced trade partnerships and economic resilience strategies.
The summit builds on ASEAN-GCC talks initiated in 2023, now expanded to include China as a key partner. Analysts highlight the potential for streamlined supply chains and joint infrastructure projects, particularly in green energy and digital economies. CGTN's Zhou Jiaxin noted the discussions aim to 'create a safety net against global market volatility' through diversified trade routes.
Business leaders anticipate reduced tariffs and harmonized standards could boost ASEAN's semiconductor exports to GCC nations while facilitating Chinese renewable energy investments. The talks occur amid shifting global supply chains and increased interest in alternative economic blocs.
