ASEAN-Korea Centre highlights strengthened partnership at council meeting

By Kim Hyun-bin

ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) Secretary General Kim Jae-shin underscored the deepening ties between Korea and member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during a reception for the 17th Council Meeting of the AKC, celebrating the new fiscal year under the recently elevated Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).

"It is my great honor to warmly welcome you to the reception for the 17th Council Meeting of the ASEAN-Korea Centre, celebrating the new fiscal year after our fruitful relations elevated to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," Kim said in his opening remarks on Thursday.

Kim expressed gratitude for the "skillful leadership of the Malaysian ambassador and the active participation of all council directors," which contributed to the success of the meeting in charting the organization's path forward.

Reflecting on past milestones, Kim noted that 2024 marked the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Korea dialogue relations and the 15th anniversary of the AKC’s establishment. He highlighted ASEAN Week 2024 as a significant occasion that "celebrated our developments and charted the course of its vision to best contribute to the ASEAN-Korea partnership in the longer perspective."

Among the recent achievements, Kim emphasized the inauguration of the ASEAN-Korea Olle Route, a 20-kilometer walking trail symbolizing cultural exchange and mutual understanding. "This 20-km walking trail will become a symbol of the vibrant ties between ASEAN and Korea," he said.

Looking ahead, Kim described 2025 as a "new chapter for ASEAN and Korea," marking the first year of the ASEAN-Korea CSP. "It will be the inaugural year of the ASEAN-Korea CSP, a milestone that reflects our shared vision for deeper collaboration and mutual growth," he said.

Kim also acknowledged the strategic importance of Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship theme, "Inclusivity and Sustainability," which aligns with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. "The new blueprint envisions ASEAN as a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centered community among member states as well as with external partners," he said.

Recognizing global uncertainties, Kim stressed that such challenges highlight the need for even closer collaboration, stating that "while they seem to disrupt our cooperation, they rather emphasize the need for closer collaboration. I am confident that, through our collective commitment, ASEAN and Korea will be able to navigate these uncertainties and emerge stronger together."

To adapt to emerging global trends, Kim outlined AKC’s focus on artificial intelligence and environmental, social and governance initiatives. He also emphasized plans to expand engagement with diverse stakeholders, including journalists, future generations and opinion leaders.