WASHINGTON: Asian nations should continue to pursue peace within their borders while forging closer regional cooperation to help ensure a safer, more sustainable world, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said on Tuesday.
In a keynote speech at Georgetown University in Washington DC, Najib outlined key issues that could affect peace and security in Asia and discussed developments such as the rise of China, the U.S.’s pivot towards Asia and Japan’s increasing engagement in the region.
He said Asia welcomed the peaceful rise of China, adding that the changes in China’s economy have opened up new opportunities for its neighbours and partners.
“And we have seen that a China which pursues peace, stability and mutual development is an invaluable partner for developed and developing countries alike. We welcome the peaceful rise of China,” he said.
Najib told some 200 students that Malaysia believed the U.S. would remain a Pacific power.
“In the medium term, America’s continued commitment towards peace, stability and prosperity is welcomed by many Asian voices, who value the friendship built over many years of bilateral and regional relations.
As such, Malaysia would continue to foster strong relationships with both the US and China, he said, stressing that it has a shared interest in stable, secure and peaceful region.
“The way Asian states interplay with the US and China will determine whether Asia’s rise brings a new era of co-operation and peace,” he added.
Najib concluded his speech by calling on Asian nations to pursue “peace within our borders and co-operation in our region,” so that “Asia’s remarkable growth can bring a better world; a safer, more sustainable world.”