Tok Mat hosts welcoming dinner for Asean foreign ministers

LANGKAWI: Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan hosted a welcoming dinner tonight for Asean foreign ministers as a prelude to the regional grouping's Ministerial Meeting (AMM) Retreat, which will take place here tomorrow.

Wisma Putra in a statement said the dinner, which was also attended by the Timor-Leste delegation and Asean Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn, was held at a hotel in Pantai Tengah, Langkawi.

"This dinner serves as a prelude to the Asean Ministerial Meeting (AMM) Retreat on Jan 19, providing a relaxed and convivial atmosphere for delegates to meet, greet, and foster stronger personal and professional bonds.

"It offers an opportunity for delegates to engage informally and build relationships ahead of the more formal discussions during the AMM Retreat," it said.

The dinner featured a variety of Malaysian dishes, including local favourites and specialties from Langkawi, reflecting Malaysia's commitment to showcasing its rich culinary heritage while creating an inclusive environment for all Asean delegates.

"The event serves to reinforce the spirit of cooperation and friendship that has long defined Asean, helping to set the tone for the important discussions that will take place the following day," the statement read.

The ministerial-level meeting marks Malaysia's chairmanship of Asean for this year.

The last time Malaysia held the chair position was in 2015.