GEORGE TOWN: France is committed to working closely with Southeast Asia while focusing on Malaysia’s leadership role in ASEAN, Axel Cruau said.

The French Ambassador to Malaysia said Malaysia’s central location is a key driving force for ASEAN’s initiatives this year.

“France values ​​the centrality of ASEAN and Malaysia is particularly crucial this year,” he said. “We expect significant progress in ASEAN initiatives under Malaysia’s leadership,” Cruau said.

He added that France expects many new initiatives and hopes for progress during the Malaysian presidency, especially on security, peace and stability, the foundations of prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

Cruau added that France broadly hopes for Malaysia’s active presidency in ASEAN.

“We know that Malaysia has many priorities, with inclusivity and sustainability being the main mottos,” he added.

He was speaking during a media dialogue session at the embassy on Tuesday (Jan 14) and a tour of the French Navy’s air defense destroyer Forbin docked at Swettenham Pier in George Town, Penang.

Cruau was responding to a question about his hopes now that Malaysia holds the current ASEAN chairmanship.

He said France is committed to deepening dialogue with Malaysia to explore how France and the European Union can support ASEAN’s efforts.

“Whether it is energy, development or other priorities, we are here to work together and contribute to ASEAN’s goals.”

“We are open to everything.

“Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is very committed to this presidency. As you know, he is traveling to Europe and will be in Brussels in a few days. We hope for very positive news during this trip,” he said.

He added that France is here to work with Malaysia and the entire ASEAN.

“France is a partner of ASEAN. It wants to achieve more with ASEAN as a whole and that is definitely one of our priorities,” he said.