Kuala Lumpur: 'Wan Nor' prepares to use the ASEAN leaders' forum and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly to discuss dealing with the US tariff wall in the name of ASEAN for negotiation, and to accelerate the resolution of the call center and drug problems in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, President of the National Assembly, highlighted the preparations for discussions between ASEAN leaders and the 14th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly delegation during the 46th ASEAN Summit. He emphasized the need for close coordination between the executive and legislative branches amidst a rapidly changing global landscape that impacts national development, particularly pointing to the US tariff increases affecting all ASEAN countries and their exports. The upcoming meeting of ASEAN Prime Ministers is expected to focus on strategies for cooperation and negotiation with the US.
Mr. Wan Noor stressed the importance of ASEAN parliaments acting in the interest of the people, acknowledging that issues affecting the populace ultimately impact the parliaments. Besides exports, he noted that tourism, investment, and other sectors are also influenced by these tariffs. He expressed confidence that a united front in negotiations would carry more weight due to ASEAN's significant population and its importance to US trade and investment.
In addition to tariff discussions, sustainable development, climate change, and reducing carbon emissions are on the agenda. He indicated that while the executive branch might have more extensive discussions, parliamentary cooperation is crucial for addressing these issues.
Mr. Wan Noor also mentioned plans to address regional problems like call center scams, significantly affecting countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia. These issues require collaborative solutions. Furthermore, ASEAN countries are engaging with partners like ASEAN+3, with China participating in September, to present proposals from the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly for joint problem-solving efforts. The drug issue, deemed a threat to the region, is another critical area requiring joint resolution.