ASEAN and China Reaffirm Ties at Kuala Lumpur Senior Officials’ Meeting, Pledge Deeper Cooperation

KUALA LUMPUR, May 21, 2026 (KPT) — Senior officials from ASEAN and China have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening regional cooperation in emerging sectors during high-level talks in the Malaysian capital.

The 32nd ASEAN-China Senior Officials’ Consultation (ACSOC) opened in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, coinciding with the fifth anniversary of the ASEAN-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2021 to strengthen political, economic and socio-cultural ties.

Cambodia was represented by Kung Phoak, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) leader. According to Cambodia’s Foreign Ministry, delegates reviewed progress in implementing the ASEAN-China Plan of Action 2026–2030, which sets out priorities for cooperation over the next five years.

The meeting highlighted growing collaboration in artificial intelligence, the digital economy and green development, while also stressing the importance of food and energy security amid global economic uncertainty.

Officials underscored the need to promote innovation-driven growth and enhance regional integration as ASEAN and China seek closer economic and strategic ties.

The consultation brought together senior diplomats and officials from ASEAN member states and China to assess ongoing initiatives and explore new opportunities for cooperation.

Malaysia hosted the meeting as part of its role in advancing regional diplomatic engagement with ASEAN dialogue partners.

ASEAN and China first elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, a milestone that has since guided efforts to expand cooperation across multiple sectors and reinforce their shared commitment to regional stability and prosperity.