U.S. and ASEAN Reaffirm Strategic Ties at 37th Annual Dialogue in Cambodia

Held in Siem Reap, the 37th U.S.-ASEAN Dialogue underlined mutual priorities in security, trade, digital transformation, and regional stability, with a strong call for democratic reforms in Burma and deeper cooperation on cybersecurity and maritime freedom.

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The 37th Annual U.S.-ASEAN Dialogue: Deepening a Strategic Partnership Amid Global Challenges
Media Note – Office of the Spokesperson | April 22, 2025

The United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened for the 37th annual U.S.-ASEAN Dialogue on April 22, 2025, in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This high-level engagement served to reinforce the enduring partnership and advance shared goals under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework. The meeting was co-chaired by Sean O’Neill, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and Kung Phoak, Cambodian Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Reiterating U.S. support for Malaysia’s current ASEAN chairmanship, O’Neill emphasized the strong and resilient nature of the U.S.-ASEAN relationship, which has flourished for nearly five decades. He conveyed President Trump’s commitment to prioritizing the safety, security, and prosperity of all citizens within the Indo-Pacific region.

A focal point of the discussions was the United States’ continued leadership as the top source of foreign direct investment in ASEAN. O’Neill stressed the U.S. administration’s push for fairness and reciprocity in global trade, alongside a firm commitment to inclusive growth through digital economies. Key areas of cooperation highlighted during the dialogue included cybersecurity, emerging technology development, freedom of navigation, and combating transnational threats such as online scam networks and synthetic drug trafficking.

O’Neill also reaffirmed the United States’ support for Timor-Leste’s prospective membership in ASEAN and underscored ongoing collaboration to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific. In a strong statement on regional security, he urged for coordinated efforts to counter external aggression and called for concrete progress in Burma’s political transition in line with the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus.

The dialogue spotlighted the worsening humanitarian situation in Burma. O’Neill called on the country’s military regime to cease violence, release unjustly detained individuals, and provide unhindered humanitarian access. He also reiterated the importance of upholding lawful maritime activities, particularly in the South China Sea.

In closing, O’Neill expressed heartfelt condolences for the loss of life in Burma and Thailand caused by the March 28 earthquake, affirming U.S. commitment to supporting ongoing relief and recovery operations in the affected regions.

As global dynamics shift, the 2025 U.S.-ASEAN Dialogue reaffirmed a united vision for peace, economic growth, and democratic values across Southeast Asia.