Prime Minister Carney Strengthens Canada–Malaysia Economic Ties at ASEAN Summit
Leaders agree to deepen collaboration in energy, technology, and trade as part of Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA — Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, advancing Canada’s efforts to expand its trade footprint and strengthen energy partnerships across Southeast Asia.
Deepening Canada–Malaysia Trade and Energy Relations
The two leaders reaffirmed the strong and growing bilateral relationship between Canada and Malaysia, which currently supports more than $5 billion in annual trade. Both underscored their shared commitment to accelerating regional cooperation and unlocking new opportunities for workers and businesses.
Prime Minister Carney thanked Prime Minister Anwar for his leadership as ASEAN Chair for 2025 and highlighted Malaysia’s pivotal role in fostering economic stability and collaboration across the Indo-Pacific region.
Letter of Intent on Energy Collaboration
A major outcome of the meeting was the signing of a Letter of Intent between Canada and Malaysia to strengthen cooperation in liquified natural gas (LNG), oil, nuclear, and renewable energy. The leaders also explored future collaboration in critical minerals, defence, and artificial intelligence, marking a broadening of the Canada–Malaysia partnership into new high-growth sectors.
Advancing Canada’s Indo-Pacific Mission
Prime Minister Carney reiterated Canada’s new mission to double non-U.S. exports within the next decade as part of a strategy to diversify trade and build economic resilience. Both leaders discussed the importance of accelerating progress toward a Canada–ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which would open access to a combined market of nearly 700 million consumers.
“Canada and Malaysia share a vision for a more connected, innovative, and secure Indo-Pacific,” said Prime Minister Carney. “This partnership is about more than trade—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy that empowers Canadian workers and strengthens our global influence.”
Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Anwar agreed to remain in close contact to continue advancing these shared priorities.
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