On 4-6 March 2024, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hosted leaders of the Lao PDR, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste in Melbourne at the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit.
The Summit, themed ‘A Partnership for the Future’, built on Australia’s 50 year history of cooperation and partnership between Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Over three days, international leaders, the ASEAN Secretary-General, Australian Ministers as well as representatives from across Australia and Southeast Asia came together to identify areas of practical cooperation for the future, to deepen economic and socio-cultural ties and strengthen educational and environmental cooperation.
Leaders shared their aspirations for the region’s future and reaffirmed their commitment to securing peace, stability, prosperity and a sustainable future for the region in a Joint Leaders' Vision Statement.
Australian Prime Minister @AlboMP, together with #ASEAN Leaders, today agreed the ASEAN-Australia Joint Leaders' Vision Statement and the Melbourne Declaration, setting out our practical cooperation and shared aspirations for the future. pic.twitter.com/iRy8d2ypfU
— Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (@pmc_gov_au) March 6, 2024
Together, leaders adopted the Melbourne Declaration, setting out the next 50 years of our enduring partnership to promote an open, inclusive and transparent region with ASEAN at the centre.
Prime Minister Albanese also announced a range of new and expanded initiatives in a package worth over $500 million, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to Southeast Asia and ASEAN now and into the future.
Working with our neighbours and friends is delivering for Australians – jobs, opportunities and security.
It’s been an honour to host leaders from ASEAN and Timor-Leste in Melbourne. pic.twitter.com/qUix27X6QM— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) March 6, 2024
Read the full Media Release or visit the 2024 ASEAN-Australia website for more information.