The 37th annual U.S.-ASEAN Dialogue, held in Siem Reap, Cambodia on April 22, 2025, brought together senior officials from both sides to discuss ongoing cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Senior Bureau Official Sean O'Neill co-chaired the dialogue with Cambodian Secretary of State Kung Phoak.
The U.S. reaffirmed its support for Malaysia's chairmanship of ASEAN, highlighting the strong and durable partnership between the two entities over the past 48 years. O'Neill assured participants that President Trump remains committed to prioritizing the safety, security, and prosperity of American citizens. The co-chairs also emphasized the importance of promoting fair and reciprocal trade relationships.
In addition to supporting an inclusive digital economy, O'Neill stressed the need for expanded cooperation on cybersecurity, emerging technologies, freedom of navigation, and combating transnational crime. He reiterated U.S. support for Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN and called for Burma's military regime to end violence against its people, release unjustly detained individuals, and allow humanitarian access.
The dialogue also addressed pressing geopolitical issues, including the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific and standing against aggression from outside parties. O'Neill underscored the U.S.'s close coordination with ASEAN on facilitating Burma's path to democracy, in line with the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. He expressed concern over the need to uphold freedoms of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea.
The U.S. also extended condolences for the loss of life in Burma and Thailand following a March 28 earthquake. O'Neill pledged continued support for humanitarian efforts during the recovery phase ahead.
The dialogue marks an important milestone in the U.S.-ASEAN relationship, demonstrating the commitment to strengthening cooperation on global issues.