#U.S.-ASEANCenterOpening

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New U.S.-ASEAN Center Opens in D.C.

  Inauguration of the U.S.-ASEAN Center In a significant development for U.S.-ASEAN relations, the U.S. Department of State, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), celebrated the opening of the U.S.-ASEAN Center in Washington, D.C. today. Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Liz Allen delivered remarks at the event, emphasizing the importance of this initiative. Announced by Vice President Kamala Harris at the 2023 U.S.-ASEAN Summit, the Center is set to become a pivotal hub for U.S.-ASEAN engagement, fostering deeper ties between the United States and Southeast Asia.   Economic and Cultural Engagement Boost The Center aims to enhance U.S. economic and cultural engagement with Southeast Asia. It will play a key role in connecting private sector organizations, academic institutions, and civil society, thereby reinforcing the U.S.-ASEAN relationship. The focus on promoting an open, connected, prosperous, resilient, and secure Indo-Pacific region aligns with the broader strategic interests of both the U.S. and ASEAN.   Decades of U.S.-ASEAN Cooperation The U.S. and ASEAN have enjoyed extensive cooperation since their dialogue partnership began in 1977, spanning political-security, economic, and socio-cultural areas. The U.S. stands as the largest source of foreign direct investment in Southeast Asia, and the bilateral trade has reached a remarkable $520.3 billion in 2022. This economic partnership has not only created jobs in the U.S. and Southeast Asia but also reflects the strength of the U.S.-ASEAN relationship.   People-to-People Connections Under Secretary Allen highlighted the deep people-to-people ties between the U.S. and ASEAN, referencing her recent visit to Indonesia, where she focused on expanding the Fulbright program and advocating for student exchanges. The increasing number of ASEAN students in the U.S. and initiatives like the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative underscores the dynamic interpersonal connections that form the backbone of this partnership.  

Congressional Support and ASU's Role

Bipartisan Congressional Backing The event acknowledged the support of several members of Congress who have played a significant role in authoring and backing legislation to support the U.S.-ASEAN Center. This bipartisan support highlights the widespread recognition in the U.S. government of the strategic importance of Southeast Asia.   ASU's Contribution and Commitment ASU’s Chief Operating Officer Christopher B. Howard, along with other dignitaries, provided further remarks, emphasizing ASU's commitment to studies and programs related to Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The university's longstanding dedication to these areas promises to enhance the capabilities and reach of the U.S.-ASEAN Center.   Sources: THX News & US Department of State. Read the full article