ASEAN-Australia Summit: Day 2

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The first ever ASEAN Special Summit held in Australia focused on increasing cooperation across Southeast Asia.

The event for the host nation was designed to showcase Australia’s commitment to the region, despite not being a formal member of the 10-nation bloc.

Aboriginal ceremony at ASEAN Summit. Source: CGTN

“Australia has been a staunch supporter of ASEAN and it’s centrality in our region is at the very heart of the stability, security and the prosperity all of our peoples deserve,” said Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

Leaders sign counter-terrorism agreement. Source: CGTN

The leaders signed a counter-terrorism agreement, which includes the sharing of intelligence and resources.

"So I call upon all countries present to step up and intensify cooperation in preventing the spread of terrorist ideologies and to hone even more effective approaches to counter the threat of radicalization and violent extremism in the Asia-Pacific area,” said Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.

ASEAN business leaders conference. Source: CGTN

There was also a heavy focus on trade at the two-day event in Sydney, where business leaders got the chance to interact with political leaders to further links across the region.

"The digital economy and social media are bringing fundamental changes to the pattern of consumption. The young and rising middle class are increasingly interested in experience and adventure instead of luxury goods. This is leading to a global tourism boom,” said Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

Turnbull said the goal of opening up trade was important in the face of rising global protectionism. It’s also important to Australia, especially when the ASEAN is a bloc representing Australia’s third largest trading partner.

Protesters in Sydney. Source: Reuters

The event also attracted several protests across Sydney, focusing on human rights concerns leveled at several ASEAN countries.

It remains unclear whether there is enough support, or the desire on Australia’s part to eventually become an official ASEAN member. Regardless, Australia's government hopes the event helped to underscore its increasing commitment to Southeast Asia.