Asean and Switzerland must champion dialogue and peace, says Mohamad Hasan
Delivering his opening remarks at the Trilateral Meeting between Malaysia, Switzerland, and the Asean Secretariat, Mohamad stressed the importance of promoting respect for international law and pursuing peaceful and just resolutions to conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Gaza.
"Asean and Switzerland should lend a collective voice to advocate for dialogue and peace. This is vital in a world where warlike language has come to occupy significant space," he said on Thursday (July 10).
"It is imperative that Israel be held accountable for its relentless atrocities and persistent violations of numerous international laws in Gaza and against other countries in the region.
"To allow such inhumanity and impunity to go unpunished raises concerning questions about the credibility of the international community and systems," he added.
Mohamad welcomed Switzerland's strong alignment with Asean values, highlighting its focus on peace, human rights, responsible business conduct, and humanitarian mine action.
"We see this in its sustained support for Asean's political-security agenda, especially through the Asean Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights, Asean Institute for Peace and Reconciliation, and the Asean Regional Mine Action Centre," he noted.
On the economic front, Mohamad expressed appreciation for Switzerland's support in promoting sustainable trade and innovation, particularly through the 2024 Joint Declaration on Economic Cooperation between Asean and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
He said the initiative would enhance trade, MSME empowerment, and digital entrepreneurship.
"Switzerland's expertise in innovation and technology can contribute significantly to Asean's transition into a digital and green economy," he said.
Mohamad also underscored the importance of Asean–Switzerland cooperation in the socio-cultural realm, especially in disaster management, climate adaptation, biodiversity, water resource management, and vocational training.
He highlighted the Asean–Swiss TVET Initiative as a key platform for enhancing skills development in the region.
"Beyond these, Asean and Switzerland play key roles in advocating peace and prosperity. Asean, through its annual meetings, brings together many countries, including major powers, to discuss issues of common concern and promote cooperation for mutual benefit.
"Meanwhile, Switzerland's role as host of the World Economic Forum in Davos underscores its standing as a key convener of global dialogue on economic, social, and environmental challenges," he added.
Mohamad noted that the WEF's focus on inclusive and sustainable solutions aligns strongly with Asean's priorities.
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