ASEAN and Canada Meet in Vientiane to Boost Connectivity
- The ASEAN-Canada Special Summit took place in Vientiane, Laos, on October 10, 2024, focusing on enhancing connectivity and resilience.
- Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership and cooperation in addressing challenges through ASEAN-led mechanisms.
- The summit concluded with a commitment to expand collaboration in various sectors, including digital cooperation, economic integration, and health security.
On October 10, 2024, in Vientiane, Laos, the Member States of ASEAN and Canada convened for a special summit focused on enhancing connectivity and resilience. This meeting reaffirmed the strategic partnership established in September 2023 and emphasized the importance of cooperation in addressing emerging challenges through ASEAN-led mechanisms. The leaders highlighted the significance of adhering to international laws and principles, particularly in promoting regional peace and security. They also committed to expanding collaboration in digital cooperation, economic integration, and food security initiatives, including the establishment of Canada's first Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office in Manila. The summit concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen efforts in various sectors, including health security and women's empowerment, while recognizing the need for sustainable and inclusive growth across the ASEAN community.