ASEAN kicks off summits with China, Gulf states amid US tariff threat

The world's leaders in Southeast Asia, China, and the Gulf Cooperation Council gathered for their first joint summit to strengthen economic ties and resiliency amid growing U.S. protectionism. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of closer relations with the GCC, while Chinese Premier Li Qiang praised cooperation between China, ASEAN, and the Middle East as a way to address global economic challenges. The meeting aims to build partnerships against unfair trade practices and safeguard growth for billions affected by U.S.-led protectionism.