US President welcomes ASEAN leaders, pledging to support 150 million USD

US President Joe Biden welcomes ASEAN leaders at the White House on May 12 – Photo: AFP

According to Reuters news agency, Biden made the commitment while having dinner with the leaders of ASEAN countries in Washington on May 12, before starting meetings at the US State Department on May 13.

Accordingly, the commitment includes 40 million USD to invest in infrastructure to reduce carbon energy sources in ASEAN, 60 million USD for maritime security and about 15 million USD in medical support for the early detection of COVID-19 and COVID-19. other pandemics. In addition, a sum will go towards the development of the digital economy and artificial intelligence law.

As for maritime security, the White House said the money would go toward new maritime initiatives, including the deployment of U.S. Coast Guard ships and personnel to combat crime at sea in the region.

Mr. Biden smiles brightly when taking photos with ASEAN leaders at the White House – Photo: REUTERS

The US said it also plans to unveil the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework package when Mr. Biden visits Japan and South Korea next week.

“I hope the meeting (with Mr Biden) will create momentum for America’s return to the region,” President Joko Widodo was quoted as saying by AFP news agency.

US President Joe Biden (centre) takes a photo with ASEAN leaders – Photo: AFP

The Biden administration is working to show Washington remains interested in the Indo-Pacific region and the long-term challenge from China. In November 2021 alone, China pledged 1.5 billion USD in development assistance to ASEAN countries over 3 years to deal with COVID-19 and economic recovery.

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi meets with ASEAN leaders – Photo: DUONG GIANG

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (2nd from left) at a meeting with US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi – Photo: DUONG GIANG