The 37th ASEAN-United States Dialogue in Siem Reap concludes with a focus on strategic partnership, trade and security

The 37th ASEAN-United States Annual Dialogue concluded in Siem Reap on 22 April 2025, marking a new strategic milestone in the nearly five-decade partnership between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The two-day meeting, co-chaired by Sean O'Neill, Senior Minister for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and Kung Phoak, Cambodian Secretary of State, brought together senior officials from both sides to advance cooperation under their comprehensive strategic partnership

Key outcomes and discussions

The United States reaffirmed its position as the leading source of foreign direct investment in the ASEAN region. U.S. officials emphasised President Donald Trump's commitment to achieving greater fairness and reciprocity in bilateral trade, amid ongoing concerns about recently imposed U.S. tariffs on ASEAN exports. The dialogue focused on the regional unease caused by these tariffs, with both sides emphasising the need for mutually beneficial economic engagement.

Regional security and geopolitics

The dialogue underscored the shared priority of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. Both sides emphasised the importance of preserving freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea, referring to ongoing maritime disputes in the South China Sea. The United States called for enhanced cooperation to counter external aggression and promote regional stability.

Digital economy and emerging technologies

Expanding collaboration on digital economy initiatives, including the development of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), was central to the discussions. Both sides agreed to intensify their efforts against transnational crime, such as online fraud and drug trafficking, and to strengthen their cooperation on cybersecurity.

Crisis in Myanmar

The United States reiterated its call on the military regime in Myanmar to end violence, release political prisoners and allow unimpeded access for humanitarian aid, in line with the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. The United States pledged to continue supporting ASEAN's efforts to restore democracy in Myanmar.

Bilateral commitments

On the sidelines of the meeting, Thai officials proposed deepening economic cooperation in the digital sphere and reaffirmed ASEAN's commitment to constructive dialogue with the United States on trade and investment issues.

Statements

Sean O'Neill said:

‘President Trump's priorities are clear. We will pursue a foreign policy that will make America safer, stronger and more prosperous,’ while Cambodian Co-Chair Kung Phoak emphasised the need for “mutually beneficial cooperation” and deeper engagement.

Outlook

The dialogue concluded on an optimistic note from both sides regarding the continued strengthening of the comprehensive strategic partnership between ASEAN and the United States, particularly in the areas of economic development, security, and digital innovation.