Malaysia's decision to invite China and Arab Gulf states to the upcoming ASEAN summit aims to enhance the bloc's strategic relevance in a multipolar world. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim clarified that this move is not an affront to the United States but a means of nurturing partnerships. However, analysts express caution, noting that ASEAN, along with its new partners, holds significant trade surpluses with the US, raising concerns about potential repercussions from Washington. The economic profiles of the Gulf states and ASEAN highlight the importance of these relationships in global trade dynamics.
Anwar's plan for a trade alliance between ASEAN, China, and the Gulf states may not sit well with Washington, indicating potential geopolitical tensions.
ASEAN is one of the world's fastest-growing economic regions, with its 10 member states reaching a total GDP of nearly $3.8 trillion in 2023.
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