KUALA LUMPUR: Exploring more opportunities for collaboration and playing a role in ensuring ASEAN remains a resilient and united bloc were among the topics discussed by Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul and his Vietnamese counterpart, Tran Thanh Man, during a meeting in Hanoi yesterday.
The Office of the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat of Malaysia, in a statement today, said both leaders agreed that Malaysia and Vietnam had vast potential, particularly in the green economy, digitalisation, and technological innovation, which were key to the region's economic future.
"Both countries are committed to intensifying efforts towards sustainable development, which is not only important for Malaysia and Vietnam but also for the entire ASEAN community.
"In addition, Malaysia and Vietnam also discussed their important roles in ensuring ASEAN remains a resilient and united bloc in facing global geopolitical and economic challenges," the statement said.
It added that both nations shared a vision of ensuring ASEAN remained a stable and prosperous regional bloc, capable of tackling global challenges such as climate change, regional peace, and economic recovery.
The two countries also emphasised the importance of ASEAN in promoting dialogue and cooperation for mutual prosperity.
Johari is on a three-day official visit to Vietnam, beginning today, at the invitation of Tran Thanh Man.
The Dewan Rakyat Speaker is accompanied by the Malaysian Parliamentary delegation which attended the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) in Vientiane, Laos.
"This warm reception reflects the close ties that have long been established between Malaysia and Vietnam and marks the continued commitment of both countries to strengthen cooperation in various strategic sectors.
"These strong diplomatic relations are not only important in solidifying bilateral friendship but also in advancing regional development agendas through the increasingly significant ASEAN framework on the global stage," the statement added. – BERNAMA