JAKARTA, Feb 3 ― Malaysia is given the responsibility of establishing the cooperation between Asean and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Canada, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.

Malaysia's role in this matter was discussed during a meeting between him and the new Asean Secretary General, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, at the Asean Secretariat’s office, here, today.

“Malaysia is responsible for ensuring that cooperation between Asean and the GCC can be established and implemented through the organisation of the (Asean-GCC) summit involving the heads of state this year,” he told the Malaysian media.

Malaysia will also be responsible for focusing on improving the relationship between Asean and Canada, said Zambry, adding that this matter has been discussed at the higher official level and will be discussed in more detail tomorrow.

Other matters addressed include the current and future position of Asean as well as the issues faced, including on Myanmar, so that the best solution can be reached.

Meanwhile, Zambry said Malaysia will give undivided support to Kao so that he can carry out his duties and implement the agenda that is Asean's priority.

The meeting with Kao was held as part of the agenda in conjunction with the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat’ series of meeting, ending tomorrow.

Kao officially took office as Asean's 15th secretary-general on January 9 to serve from 2023 to 2027. ― Bernama

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2023/02/03/zambry-malaysia-given-responsibility-of-establishing-cooperation-with-gcc-improving-asean-canada-relations/53304