Canada stands to gain greatly from investing in and developing close ties with this dynamic and economically vibrant part of the world.

by: Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux, PSG Senator Clement Gignac

As co-chairs of the newly constituted Canada-ASEAN Interparliamentary Friendship Group, we firmly believe that fostering and deepening the relationship between Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations is not only beneficial, but also essential for the reciprocal prosperity and economic stability of all countries.

Established in 1967, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises 10 member countries, with Timor-Leste on track to become its 11th member. The significance of the ASEAN region cannot be understated, and Canada stands to gain immensely from investing in and developing close ties with this dynamic and economically vibrant part of the world. Boasting a combined GDP of over $3-trillion and a population exceeding 600 million-with over half between the ages of 20 to 54-the ASEAN region is an emerging powerhouse which Canada must continue to befriend.

In 2022, ASEAN collectively stood as Canada’s fourth-largest merchandise trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at $40.7-billion. This trade relationship-characterized by substantial Canadian merchandise exports to ASEAN countries and imports from these nations-underscores the economic synergy between Canada and ASEAN. By further enhancing trade ties, exploring investment opportunities, and fostering innovation and collaboration, our nation can tap into the vast potential that the ASEAN region offers.

Since 1977, Canada has built strong diplomatic relations with ASEAN, but with the recent destabilizing shifts in the international system, these relations require further strengthening. Canada has collaborated with ASEAN countries on various issues ranging from political and security matters to disaster risk reduction and interfaith dialogue. The Canada-ASEAN Joint Declaration on Trade and Investment, adopted in 2011, laid the foundation for enhanced co-operation in trade and investment opportunities.

Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy further underscores the country’s relationship with the region. For example, the expansion of FinDev Canada’s work, the enhancement of military presence through Operation HORIZON, and the decision to establish the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office in Manila, Philippines. Most recently, the establishment of the Canada-ASEAN Strategic Partnership in September 2023 signifies the latest chapter in the mutual commitment to our deepening co-operation.

The imperative for Canada to continue investing in and cultivating strong ties with the ASEAN region is clear. By elevating diplomatic relations, expanding economic co-operation, and actively participating in regional initiatives, Canada can position itself as a key player in the dynamic ASEAN landscape. As co-chairs of the Canada-ASEAN Interparliamentary Friendship Group, we are committed to helping provide a forum which can foster such deeper engagement. Furthermore, we look forward to working closely with the Philippine Embassy in Canada, which currently holds the chairmanship of the ASEAN Committee in Ottawa.

We also congratulate the Canada-ASEAN Business Council (CABC) on its official accreditation as an entity associated with ASEAN. Not only is the CABC the sole Canadian entity to be officially associated with ASEAN, but alongside the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council and the EU-ASEAN Business Council it is one of the three exclusive ASEAN-accredited joint business organizations. Indeed, public and private partnerships are key to our mutual success.

Finally, we cannot neglect to acknowledge the upcoming commemoration of the founding of ASEAN. On Aug. 8, ASEAN celebrates its 57th anniversary.

PSG Senator Clément Gignac and Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux are the co-chairs of the Canada-ASEAN Interparliamentary Friendship Group.

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