00:00The United States is a very important dialogue partner of ASEAN, where in 2024, total trade
00:11between ASEAN and the U.S. reached a record of 453 billion U.S. dollars. And the U.S.
00:17is also our top export market outside the region, with ASEAN exports to the U.S. surging
00:24at 312 billion U.S. dollars, nearly 16 percent increase from the previous year, an addition
00:30of about 42 billion U.S. dollars in just one year. And when you look at investments, it
00:35tells a similar story. And in 2024, the U.S. was ASEAN's largest source of foreign direct
00:42investment, with inflows exceeding 42 billion U.S. dollars. And that's not just capital,
00:48is a clear vote of confidence in ASEAN's future and in the opportunities our region provides.
00:56And our ties go beyond trade and investment. People-to-people connections are thriving,
01:02with 4.6 million Americans visiting ASEAN last year. These are not just tourists, but students,
01:10entrepreneurs, innovators, and families. They strengthen the bonds that unite our regions
01:15together. Our agenda today builds on this solid foundation. We will review the 2024-2025 TIFA
01:23and E3 work plan, endorse the 25-26 work plan, and exchange views on the big challenges shaping
01:30the world economy. It's a timely conversation because we all feel the winds of change, whether
01:36in supply chains, digital transformation, or the global push for greener, more sustainable
01:42growth. As Chair, I'm confident that today's consultation will set a clear direction for the
01:48next phase of ASEAN-U.S. cooperation. Let us continue building on what we already have,
01:54a shared commitment to openness, resilience, and prosperity that benefits all our people.
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