Canada Strengthens Ties with ASEAN at Summit in Laos: Boosting Trade, Security, and Climate Initiatives
Vientiane, Laos – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has concluded his participation at the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, marking the first time a Canadian Prime Minister has visited the Southeast Asian nation. Trudeau’s visit aimed to deepen Canada’s relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional organization that has grown into Canada’s fourth-largest merchandise trading partner.
Since 2015, trade between Canada and ASEAN has nearly doubled, fueled by expanded cooperation in agriculture, agrifood, and digital trade. With the ASEAN region experiencing rapid industrialization and growth, Trudeau emphasized the importance of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, which aims to foster stronger economic and diplomatic ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
During the summit, Trudeau announced a significant diplomatic expansion, with plans to upgrade Canada’s offices in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Vientiane, Laos, to full embassies with resident ambassadors. This will ensure Canada has embassies in all 10 ASEAN member states, strengthening diplomatic and trade connections across the region. Additionally, the Prime Minister highlighted an upcoming Team Canada Trade Mission to Indonesia and the Philippines later this year, and future missions to Thailand and Cambodia in 2025, signaling Canada’s growing economic footprint in the Indo-Pacific.
To support these initiatives, Trudeau unveiled a $128 million investment package targeting various priority areas including climate change, security, and women’s rights.
As leaders of Canada, Australia and New Zealand, we met today to reaffirm our shared values and commitment to work together on international trade, the rule of law, climate change action, and international peace and security. pic.twitter.com/WIlYpAr6sD
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 10, 2024
Addressing Climate Change and Supporting Growth
Climate change is a key challenge affecting ASEAN nations, with significant environmental impacts being felt across the region. Trudeau committed over $84 million to support environmental projects in Southeast Asia. The funding will go toward initiatives such as Laos’ Monsoon Wind Power Project, the Lao Landscapes and Livelihoods Project, and efforts by the Mekong River Commission. It also aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve resilience to natural disasters.
“Climate action is a shared responsibility, and we are committed to working with our ASEAN partners to support clean growth and environmental protection,” said Trudeau.
Enhancing Security and Combating Crime
The Canadian government is also investing $21.3 million to tackle transnational organized crime and terrorism, with a focus on combatting human and drug trafficking, money laundering, and cybercrime. Canada plans to collaborate with law enforcement agencies in the Indo-Pacific to strengthen aviation and border security while addressing the challenges posed by illegal logging and deforestation.
Trudeau underscored the importance of peace and stability in the region, pledging $11.9 million for various peace and security initiatives, including demining efforts, arms control, and building cyber resilience to combat malicious actors.
Supporting Women’s Rights and Education
Recognizing the need for greater inclusion, Canada is investing $9 million to promote women’s labour rights and eliminate forced and child labour in the region. Funding will also improve access to prosthetic and rehabilitation services for women and girls with physical disabilities. Additionally, a new $2 million scholarship program will facilitate educational exchanges between Canada and ASEAN, aiming to enhance ties in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and online rights.
A Path Toward a Canada-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement
Progress toward a free trade agreement between Canada and ASEAN continues, following last year’s establishment of the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership. Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to boosting trade and investment, noting that the economic opportunities in the ASEAN region are significant. As the world’s fifth-largest economy, ASEAN offers a rapidly growing market for Canadian businesses to expand their reach.
With Canada set to host the G7 Presidency in 2025, Trudeau indicated that ASEAN would be a central part of the country’s international agenda, further strengthening the relationships built during this year’s summit.
“Canada is a proud Indo-Pacific nation,” said Trudeau. “At the ASEAN Summit, we increased our footprint in this dynamic region, securing trade, investment, and good-paying jobs for Canadians. As we fight climate change, defend peace and security, and grow our economies, we are putting Canadians at the forefront of global opportunity.”
Prime Minister Trudeau extended his appreciation to the Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, for hosting the summit, and reaffirmed Canada’s dedication to fostering stronger ties with ASEAN partners, benefiting both sides of the Pacific.
A Growing Partnership with Far-Reaching Benefits
Canada’s ongoing efforts to enhance its relations with ASEAN represent a key part of the country’s economic and diplomatic strategy. With a focus on shared prosperity, climate action, and security, the new measures aim to create sustainable economic growth while addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing both Canada and Southeast Asia.
As the Indo-Pacific strategy unfolds, Canadians can expect increased economic engagement with ASEAN nations, which promises to bring more job opportunities and innovations to communities across the country.